President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared that the last one year has been a challenging time for the country.

The President said he has been working, retooling and rejigging the financial system to bring prosperity and relief to Nigerians.

President Tinubu who made the remarks at the inauguration of engineering infrastructure in Guzape District Lot II, in Abuja on Tuesday stated that his administration is prioritizing people-focused development by providing essential infrastructure and amenities that will improve the quality of life of the people.

The President also named two roads in the Guzape area of Abuja after Africa’s literary giant, Chinua Achebe, and Jp Clark following the recommendation and appeal by the Federal Capital Territory, Minister Nyesom Wike.

President Tinubu said: “Minister Nyesom Wike has provided exceptional leadership at a trying time for the country. It has been a very challenging time for us in the country.

We are still retooling and rejigging our financial system to bring prosperity and relief to the people of this country.

“You have demonstrated the capacity to build a team, lead a team, and deliver on promises. I commend you.

The President who hinted that government will compensate those affected by the project, added that, “To all of you here, to the District Head of Guzape, and the representatives, litigation is not the answer. Compensation is the answer.

“Development that is focused on the people for economic prosperity and benefits is what we should pursue.”

In his remarks, the Minister of FCT, Wike, explained that the contract initially awarded in 2003 at the cost of N14 billion was divided into Lots 1 and 2 to Messrs Dantata & Sawoe Construction Company Nigeria Limited and Messrs Gilmor Engineering Limited.

The Minister disclosed that the development of the district, which covers 32km of road, had been fraught with litigations, which, however, did not deter the progress of the project.

He said shortly before the present administration assumed office, the cost of the project was revised to N18.17 billion. (Daily Trust)