President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed that Nigerians should not bear undue hardship as a result of development projects, emphasizing that communities that contribute to national progress deserve proper support, compensation, and improved living conditions.
The president made the statement during the inauguration of a newly constructed access road linking Clinton Drive to the Tunganmadaki community in the Federal Capital Territory, a project designed to improve connectivity around the Abuja airport’s second runway.
Represented at the event by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Tinubu noted that residents of the affected communities made significant sacrifices by giving up ancestral lands for the expansion of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport. Despite their contribution to national development, many of them had lived for years without adequate infrastructure and access roads.
He stressed that development should not come at the expense of citizens’ welfare, adding that communities that support government projects must also benefit from the gains of such initiatives.
According to the president, concerns raised by the affected residents were brought to his attention by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, prompting immediate directives to address the needs of the communities and improve their living conditions.
Tinubu said the completion of the access road demonstrates the government’s commitment to keeping its promises and ensuring that development projects positively impact local populations.
The president also called on Nigerians to remain patient and supportive of his administration’s policies, acknowledging that economic reforms introduced by the government have placed pressure on many households.
He explained that the reforms were necessary to build a stronger economy and create long-term benefits for future generations, assuring citizens that the government remains committed to improving their quality of life through sustained investments in infrastructure and public services.
Speaking at the event, Wike commended the Tunganmadaki community for its cooperation during the land acquisition process for the airport runway project.
He revealed that community leaders prioritized employment opportunities and infrastructure development for their people rather than demanding direct financial compensation.
According to the minister, the government’s response to those requests has helped restore public confidence and demonstrated that meaningful partnerships between communities and government can deliver lasting benefits.
Wike urged other communities to adopt a similar approach by focusing on projects and opportunities that promote long-term development and economic growth.
