The Nigerian presidency has responded to criticism from former Vice President Atiku Abubakar regarding the awarding of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway construction contract to Hitech Construction Company, associated with the Chagoury family. Atiku accused President Bola Tinubu’s government of conflict of interest due to Tinubu’s son’s role in a different company. In rebuttal, the presidency highlighted Atiku’s own business links during his tenure and his approval of numerous state-owned enterprise sales to acquaintances. They argued that Atiku’s criticism was hypocritical given his past actions.
The presidency defended Seyi Tinubu’s involvement in CDK, a tiles manufacturing company, stating he is a legitimate businessperson and not on the board due to family connections. They emphasized that CDK’s ownership structure is publicly available information and that Seyi Tinubu’s role does not conflict with Hitech’s work on the highway project.
The presidency accused Atiku of attacking the Lagos-Calabar project for political reasons, suggesting that its success would bolster President Tinubu’s image and hinder Atiku’s own presidential ambitions. They urged Atiku to support transformative projects like the highway, highlighting its potential economic benefits.
The presidency also touted President Tinubu’s economic initiatives and infrastructure projects, aiming for Nigeria to become Africa’s largest market and economy. They emphasized the administration’s revenue generation plans and the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Fund’s substantial funding goals, expressing confidence in achieving a $1 trillion economy under Tinubu’s leadership.
In summary, the presidency defended the awarding of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway contract, dismissed Atiku’s criticisms as politically motivated, and highlighted their administration’s economic agenda and infrastructure plans.
Sahara Reporters