The Minister of Works, Engineer David Umahi, on Thursday cautioned against politicising insecurity in Nigeria, insisting that the security challenges facing the country did not originate under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Umahi made the remarks during a town hall meeting organised by the Gombe State Government shortly after the official unveiling of the proposed Gombe Super Highway project.
The minister criticised what he described as attempts by some politicians to use insecurity as a political tool, particularly ahead of elections.
“When people talk about insecurity, especially extreme politicians, and insult the President as if insecurity just started within the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, it is very unfortunate,” Umahi said.
According to him, security is a collective responsibility and should not be reduced to partisan politics.
“Security is the job of everyone. Security should not be politicised. Why is it that anytime we are approaching elections there is heightened insecurity? It is very unfair. Anyone that takes the life of another person under any guise, God is watching.
“If anyone has a hand in insecurity because the person wants power, God will resist such a person. We stand with the President, we pray for him, and this phase will pass. We will overcome,” he added.
Umahi also prayed for the safe return of persons recently abducted in different parts of the country.
The minister expressed confidence in the leadership of President Tinubu and Governor Muhammadu Yahaya, commending the developmental strides recorded under the All Progressives Congress (APC).
“I am delighted that Gombe is an APC state. I am proud of the leadership of Governor Inuwa Yahaya and proud of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The achievements of the APC government give us confidence that we are moving in the right direction,” he said.
He noted that despite prevailing challenges, the administration remained committed to infrastructure development and economic growth.
“We have witnessed remarkable achievements by the governor, and I commend him for his efforts. Nigeria is one united country and we must continue to work together for development,” Umahi stated.
The minister disclosed that there has never been a time Governor Yahaya approached the Federal Government on a development matter and was turned down, describing the relationship between the governor and President Tinubu as cordial and productive.
Speaking on the newly announced Gombe Super Highway, Umahi said construction would commence within the next 30 days.
He explained that the project, which forms part of a larger highway network spanning about 700 kilometres, had undergone route adjustments following consultations with the Gombe State Government.
The highway, to be constructed by Hitech Construction Company, will pass through the Gombe-Biu corridor and is expected to improve transportation, ease movement of goods and services, and stimulate economic activities in the region.
“Earlier today, we handed over the Gombe Super Highway project. The project was initially designed to cover about 125 kilometres, but adjustments were made after discussions with the state government,” he said.
“As the representative of the President, I approved a modification of the route. The revised alignment now integrates ongoing road projects being executed by the state government.”
According to him, the state government is already constructing about 25 kilometres in one section and another 10 kilometres in a separate section, leaving the Federal Government with approximately 11.5 kilometres to complete within the corridor.
“I want to assure the people of Gombe that within the next 30 days construction activities will commence on site. This is a legacy project of President Tinubu’s administration,” he said.
Umahi revealed that while Section One of the broader highway project had already been awarded to a Chinese construction company, the section traversing Gombe was adjusted in collaboration with the state government.
He expressed confidence in Hitech Construction Company, describing it as a reputable firm with the capacity and experience required to deliver the project successfully.
In his remarks, Governor Muhammadu Yahaya described the highway project as a major milestone for the state and a catalyst for economic transformation.
He said the project aligns with the Federal Government’s broader development agenda and would complement ongoing initiatives aimed at improving livelihoods and boosting economic prosperity.
“This project comes at a very important time in our lives and presents a great opportunity for development,” the governor said.
Yahaya praised the achievements of the APC-led Federal Government, noting that the administration of President Tinubu had continued to build on the foundation laid by former President Muhammadu Buhari.
“Our party has been in government for seven years now, four years under former President Muhammadu Buhari and three years under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. I can confidently say that the achievements recorded during these years have surpassed those of previous administrations,” he said.
The governor assured contractors handling the project of adequate security for personnel and equipment throughout the duration of construction.
“On behalf of the Government and people of Gombe State, I assure you that the security of your personnel, equipment and machinery is guaranteed. Nothing will stand in the way of the successful execution and timely delivery of this project,” he said.
Yahaya further linked the road project to the state’s livestock development initiative, which he said was inspired by discussions he had with President Tinubu long before the latter assumed office.
According to him, the initiative seeks to modernise the livestock sector, create jobs, improve livelihoods and enhance food security.
“Today, that livestock development initiative is becoming a reality. Coincidentally, it is being linked to this major highway project, which will open up new opportunities and significantly enhance the economic wellbeing of our citizens,” the governor said.
He added that the highway would help decongest the city centre, unlock new investment opportunities and support the state’s long-term economic development plans.