May 29 celebrations: Tinubu has no plans to visit National Assembly – Presidency

Presidency has debunked claims that President Bola Tinubu will be visiting the national Assembly on Wednesday.

Ajuri Ngelale, Presidential Spokesman on Tuesday, stated this in a statement made available to Businessday in Abuja.

Ngelale said “in view of public commentary concerning the President delivering a speech before a joint sitting of the National Assembly tomorrow, May 29, 2024, it is important to state that this information is false and unauthorized as the Office of the President was not involved in the planning of the event.”

The statement was issued to correct earlier statement that indicated that the President will visit the National Assembly and make a speech as part of the activities marking the 25 years anniversary of the National Assembly in Abuja

He disclosed that the President will however continue his commitment to delivering good governance, by embarking on the inauguration of strategic projects.

He noted that more transformative projects will be inaugurated by President Tinubu’s administration for the benefit of all Nigerians.

The President had on his arrival from Lagos on Tuesday, embarked on the inauguration of series of projects completed under his administration

The projects include the Southern Parkway project, which serves as a critical artery connecting major areas within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The Southern Parkway is one of the principal arteries conceived and planned as a freeway to provide access and connectivity to the Southern Development flank of the Capital City.

The other principal artery is the Northern Parkway, which has been substantially developed over the years to service the Northern District.

The project was awarded in 2010 but was not completed until the intervention of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Speaking at the inauguration of the project, President Bola Tinubu described infrastructure development as an enabler of economic growth and prosperity, stating that his administration would sustain investments in critical sectors to improve the welfare of citizens.

The President commended Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, for his diligence and courageous efforts, noting the recent infrastructural developments in the city.

“Today, we gather to mark a significant milestone in the journey of our nation towards progress and development. As we commemorate our first year in office, it is a great joy and a welcome challenge that we have a huge responsibility on our shoulders.

“I understand the Southern Parkway not only represents a physical artery that connects vital areas within the FCT but symbolizes our collective aspiration for connectivity, ease of livelihood, accessibility, and progress. By providing a seamless and efficient transportation corridor, this road will not only ease traffic congestion but will also enhance mobility for residents and visitors to the FCT.

“The completion of the Southern Parkway underscores our commitment to inclusive and sustainable development as we strive to build a world-class Capital City. We recognize the fact that infrastructure development is a provider of jobs, and an enabler of economic development and prosperity. We believe we are going to achieve all that we have set out to achieve.

“The needs of our citizens are paramount in our thoughts and actions. By making our citizens the central focus of our development, we believe Nigeria will succeed.

“Nyesom Wike, Mr. Projects. I thank you for giving us hope and for your sincere commitment to shared values. Well done. As a team leader, you have worked so hard. I must recognize your vision that is revolutionary and inspiring to many of our people. The changes you have made to the FCT, structurally and administratively, are yielding results and elevating belief in the hearts of many Nigerians,” the President said.

Explaining the significant features of the project, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory said the road consists of 12 lanes in total.

“Your Excellency to bring the level of development of the Southern Parkway on par with the Northern Parkway, this project which was awarded in December 2010 to Setraco Nigeria Limited at the contract sum of N16.2 billion was later revised to N35.7 billion due to changes in scope and other economic indices. But this was done before this administration came in.

“The scope of work is made up of two main carriage ways of four lanes each and two service carriage ways of two lanes each, making a total of 12 lanes. It also includes the construction of four interchanges, a total of eight bridges in addition to the position of associated underground engineering facilities.

“I am happy to inform Your Excellency that the project is now completed in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President,” the Minister said.

Wike said the completion of the project will enhance traffic circulation around the city centre, reducing delays and travel time, while accelerating the development of the Southern Axis of the city, bringing improved socio-economic benefits to residents and other Nigerians.

The President is also expected to inaugurate the FCT rail project and the Wuye bridge that are expected to ease movements within the FCT, within the next one week.