President Bola Tinubu has expressed his satisfaction with the successful completion of the official residence for the Vice President.
In a statement, Tinubu criticized the previous administration for abandoning the project, stating that it was wasteful to abandon projects after significant expenditures.
During the inauguration ceremony of the completed residence, Vice President Kashim Shettima represented President Tinubu and reiterated the commitment of the administration to completing abandoned projects as a key objective of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Shettima acknowledged the challenges faced during the project’s execution but emphasized that the focus should be on completing the project rather than dwelling on past shortcomings.
He emphasized the administration’s dedication to accountability, transparency, and the efficient utilization of resources for the betterment of the nation.
The President expressed his belief that abandoning projects after substantial expenditures is inherently wasteful and stressed the importance of seeing projects through to completion.
Despite the challenges faced by the project, including delays and abandonment by previous administrations, the current administration chose to seize the opportunity to demonstrate its resolve in addressing challenges and fulfilling promises made to the Nigerian people.
The completion of the Vice President’s official residence symbolizes respect for the office and the individual who occupies it.
President Tinubu highlighted the significance of the project in laying a foundation for a more efficient and effective government.
Providing a suitable residence for the Vice President goes beyond convenience; it is a testament to the President’s respect for the office and the role it plays in the governance of the nation.
FCT Minister Nyesom Wike revealed that the project was initially awarded in 2010 at a cost of N7bn but was abandoned in 2015.
However, in January 2024, the project was reviewed and completed at a cost of N21bn to provide the Vice President with a befitting environment to carry out his duties.
In light of recent issues with Setraco Nigeria Limited, the contractor responsible for the project, Minister Wike expressed his dissatisfaction with their performance and threatened not to award future contracts to the company.
He cited the streetlights on the newly inaugurated Bola Ahmed Tinubu Way as an example, stating that he would not accept subpar work from them.
