The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, has dismissed claims of lopsidedness in the current administration, insisting that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been fair to all parts of the country.
Speaking in Abuja on Sunday, Idris described recent allegations of favoritism as “half-truths and fake information” aimed at discrediting the government. He maintained that President Tinubu’s policies and projects have been guided by fairness, justice, and equity since he assumed office.
According to him, federal projects, appointments, and opportunities have been spread across all six geopolitical zones, contrary to what critics have suggested. “No region is playing second fiddle or ignored,” the minister said, stressing that balanced development has been a key focus of the administration.
Idris highlighted major infrastructural projects currently underway, noting that while the Coastal Highway cuts across the South, the Badagry–Sokoto Highway stretches through the North. He pointed out that every region now has a Regional Development Commission to drive localized growth.
The minister further explained that road, rail, and power projects are ongoing nationwide. He cited the light rail projects in Kano and Kaduna, with secured funding of ₦150 billion and ₦100 billion respectively, as well as the Lagos and Ogun metroline projects, which form part of a broader push to expand Nigeria’s rail infrastructure. Together, he said, these projects are expected to generate more than 250,000 jobs.
On the Eastern rail corridor, Idris revealed that rehabilitation works from Port Harcourt to Maiduguri are ongoing, while over 1,000 primary healthcare centres have been upgraded across the country. He also pointed to the revival of the 255MW Kaduna Power Plant, progress on the AKK Gas Project, and oil exploration in Bauchi and Gombe States as evidence of the government’s commitment to even development.
He added that the Kano–Maradi rail line, which stood at only 5 percent completion when inherited, has now reached 67 percent following renewed government support.
On appointments, Idris said President Tinubu has been consistent in ensuring competence and inclusivity, drawing capable Nigerians from every region. “Equity is clear in both projects and appointments. This government is building national infrastructure, not regional trophies,” he noted.
The minister emphasized that the “Renewed Hope Agenda” is anchored on inclusivity. He pointed to the establishment of five new Regional Development Commissions and the creation of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development as further proof that the administration is addressing Nigeria’s diverse needs in a way that benefits every section of the country.
