President Bola Tinubu has said his administration will continue to develop critical infrastructureand partner state governments in theSouth-East to advance the region’s strategic interests.

Mr Tinubu said this on Friday night at a public lecture titled, “Leading Nigeria Forward: Strategies for Security and National Cohesion,” organised by the Abia State Government.

The event was organised to mark the 70th birthday of a former Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Azubuike Ihejirika(rtd), in Umuahia.

The President, represented by the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr Kingsley Ude, disclosed that the Federal Government through various initiatives and policies had proven its resolve to boost socioeconomic growth in the zone.

Mr Tinubu cited the concession of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport as evidence of efforts to reposition key infrastructure in the zone.

He referenced the ongoing airport project at Nsulu in the Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area of Abia State as further proof of commitment.

Mr Tinubu also highlighted the establishment of the South-East Development Commission as a platform created to fast-track development initiatives in the region.

The President noted that the completion and operationalisation of the Port Harcourt–Aba Railway was to improve connectivity and commerce in the region.

He also disclosed that the Federal Government had approved $3 billion dollars for the completion of the 2,044-kilometre Eastern Rail Line and 508 million dollars for upgrading eastern ports.

Mr Tinubu said that his administration remained committed to economic reforms and large-scale infrastructure investment to create jobs for Nigeria’s teeming youth population.

He stated that the non-kinetic security approach would engage young people productively, reduce crime and channel their energies toward growing the nation’s Gross Domestic Product.

The President reiterated that the South-East was vital to national development and central to achieving Nigeria’s one-trillion-dollar economy target by 2030.

He commended the region’s enterprise and nationwide economic presence as clear evidence of commitment to Nigeria’s unity and progress.

Mr Tinubu assured that the Federal Government would continue to provide a level playing field for all Nigerians to realise their potential and contribute to economic growth.
(NAN)