By Amofokhai Williams
The directive was issued on Friday at a civic reception in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, following the commissioning of major infrastructure projects executed by Governor Douye Diri.
Tinubu said the administration was fully aware of the economic strain on Nigerians, noting that the ripple effects of the US-Israeli conflict involving Iran were already being felt locally, especially in energy costs.
“Yes, I hear you from various angles of the economy. The fuel prices are biting hard. But look around. Let’s thank God that we are better off listening to what is happening in other African countries,” the President said.
He disclosed that the Ministries of Finance and Budget, alongside the Office of the Head of Service, had been tasked with reviewing the situation and proposing practical solutions to ease the burden on citizens.
“This is a government that cares. We will look at the numbers with the Ministry of Finance, Budget and Economic Planning,” Tinubu added.
The President reiterated his administration’s commitment to improving living conditions, stressing that governance must translate into tangible benefits such as infrastructure, jobs and economic opportunities.
“Regardless of their shenanigans, the All Progressives Congress believes that the people deserve to see governance translated into roads, bridges, power, jobs and real opportunities that affect human beings,” he said.
Tinubu also highlighted the importance of collaboration between federal and state governments, noting that development is accelerated when both tiers work towards shared objectives.
“The projects that I commissioned today demonstrate that development advances faster when federal and state governments work in partnership,” he said.
He commended Governor Diri for executing transformative projects aligned with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, including the 60-megawatt gas-fired Independent Power Plant, major road networks and bridges aimed at boosting connectivity and economic growth.
The President further assured Nigerians of sustained efforts to address the country’s energy challenges, recalling his earlier initiatives on independent power generation and pledging to achieve energy sufficiency.
Earlier, Tinubu observed a minute’s silence in honour of fallen members of the armed forces and late former Bayelsa governor, DSP Alamieyeseigha.
In his remarks, Diri said the Federal Government’s policy support had enabled Bayelsa to deliver key projects, particularly in the power sector, adding that the initiatives would improve electricity supply, stimulate economic activities and enhance residents’ quality of life.
The event attracted several dignitaries, including serving governors and political leaders, underscoring the significance of the President’s visit to the oil-rich state.
