The Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has reiterated his administration’s dedication to infrastructure development, inclusive security reforms, and economic transformation as key drivers for unlocking the full potential of the South-east region.
Represented by Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Kingsley Udeh, the President made the remarks at the International Conference Centre, Umuahia, during a public lecture marking the 70th birthday of Lt. Gen. Onyeabo Azubuike Ihejirika (Rtd.), themed “Leading Nigeria Forward: Strategies for Security and National Cohesion.”
President Tinubu described General Ihejirika as ‘a patriot, pan-Nigerian statesman, and courageous military officer who served Nigeria with distinction during one of the most turbulent periods in the nation’s fight against insurgency.’
He conveyed the goodwill of the Nigerian Government and the people of Nigeria, praying for continued strength and good health for the celebrant so the nation can continue to benefit from his wealth of experience.
Strengthening Security
Highlighting the importance of national inclusion in strengthening security, the President noted that “leadership must engage the best hands from every part of the country.’
He referenced key appointments within the Armed Forces, including Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla as Chief of the Naval Staff and Air Marshal Sunday Aneke as Chief of the Air Staff, as part of deliberate efforts to ensure balanced representation within Nigeria’s security architecture.
According to the President, “fostering a sense of belonging across all regions is fundamental to bolstering national cohesion, loyalty, and solidarity in confronting insecurity.’
President Tinubu restated his administration’s commitment to decentralising Nigeria’s policing framework through the establishment of state police.
He confirmed that approval has been granted for the process and urged the National Assembly to review relevant laws to enable states that consider it necessary to establish sub-national policing structures.
He emphasised that a large, diverse, and populous nation like Nigeria requires an additional layer of policing to effectively safeguard lives and property.
Massive Infrastructure
The President underscored the importance of massive infrastructure investments and reforms as part of a non-kinetic strategy to combat insecurity.
He stated that creating employment opportunities for Nigeria’s youth population would redirect energies toward productive economic activities and contribute significantly to GDP growth.
President Tinubu reiterated that the South East remained critical to the administration’s vision of building a $1 trillion economy by 2030.
He commended the region’s entrepreneurial spirit and nationwide economic presence, affirming the Nigerian Government’s commitment to providing a level playing field for all Nigerians to achieve their full potential.
The President outlined ongoing and approved projects demonstrating the Nigerian Government’s resolve to accelerate development in the region, including:
• The concession of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport
• The airport project at Usulu in Isiala Ngwa Local Government Area
• The establishment of the South East Development Commission
• The completion and operationalisation of the Port Harcourt–Aba railway
• Approval of $3 billion for the completion of the 2,044km Eastern Rail Line
• $508 million for the upgrade and modernisation of Nigeria’s Eastern Ports infrastructure.
These initiatives, he stated, “form part of a broader national strategy to strengthen connectivity, stimulate commerce, and integrate regional economies into the national growth framework.”
The President emphasised the indivisibility of Nigeria and the shared destiny of its people, stressing that national unity remains indispensable to defeating insecurity and building lasting prosperity.
He expressed appreciation to the Government and people of Abia State for the warm reception and congratulated Lt. Gen. Ihejirika on his milestone birthday.