Tinubu to governors: Stop building flyovers where there is no traffic

President Bola Tinubu has urged state governors to prioritise projects that directly improve citizens’ welfare rather than constructing infrastructure with limited practical value.

Tinubu made the call on Thursday in Abuja while receiving a delegation of traditional rulers from Oyo State, led by Oba Rashidi Ladoja, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, at the State House.

The president specifically urged governors to “stop building flyovers where there is no numeric traffic” and instead invest in roads and other infrastructure that can improve access to communities and strengthen security.

Speaking directly to Ladoja, who served as Oyo State governor between 2003 and 2007, Tinubu said state revenues have increased significantly compared with the period when both men served as governors. Tinubu was governor of Lagos State from 1999 to 2007.

“You have governed before as a governor. You need to help us communicate to these governors,” Tinubu said.

“Today, the economy of operation is high. But the money that I’m pushing to the states, if you had had it during your own time or during my time, it would have been different.

“They are taking four to five times their money. Nobody is borrowing money to pay salaries now. Pensioners are receiving their pay.”

Tinubu said the increased revenues should translate into better infrastructure and improved living conditions for Nigerians.

“They should do more instead of building flying over where there is no numeric traffic; build roads and artery networks to really enhance the quality of life and the accessibility of the security agencies to penetrate those areas,” he said.

The president also linked improved infrastructure to the fight against insecurity, noting that better road networks would enable security agencies to reach communities that are difficult to access.

Tinubu said his administration was taking steps to strengthen security at the grassroots through the planned establishment of state police.

He also urged traditional rulers to play a greater role in addressing insecurity in their communities.

The president said the government was equally strengthening the capacity of forest guards to tackle criminal activities, particularly in areas where forests have become hideouts for criminal elements.