President Bola Tinubu has laid out his administration’s plans to enhance national unity and prosperity by connecting all regions through infrastructural development.
Despite the current economic challenges, the President assured Nigerians of the long-term benefits of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
This assurance was delivered by the Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Services (FIRS), Zaccheus Adedeji, at the funeral service of Chief Michael Adeniyi Koleosho, former Secretary to the Oyo State Government, held at Ajegunle Baptist Church in Saki, Oyo State, on Saturday.
In his speech, Tinubu emphasised the critical role infrastructure plays in fostering national unity and development.
He specifically mentioned the Lagos to Calabar coastal highway as a flagship initiative of his administration, aimed at not only improving transportation but also stimulating economic growth across regions.
“This project is just the beginning; we are committed to laying down a framework that connects every part of Nigeria,” Tinubu said.
“Our goal is to ensure that no region is left behind as we work towards a more integrated and prosperous nation.”
He further expressed his vision of using infrastructure development to unify the country and generate benefits for all Nigerians, adding, “My aim is to connect the country through infrastructure, which will ultimately yield profits for the benefit of all Nigerians.
“This vision may take time and effort, but I assure you that the fruits of our labour will soon be evident in every part of Nigeria.”
Tinubu expressed high regard for the former Secretary to the Oyo State Government and acknowledged the profound impact he had on his own decision-making regarding infrastructure development.
“Chief Koleosho was a man of humility and an advocate of hard work, who will be greatly missed. His insights and dedication to public service have greatly influenced my approach to governance.”
“I hold Chief Koleosho in high esteem. He was a man of vision whose contributions to our nation will never be forgotten. His humility and dedication to hard work are qualities we must aspire to emulate.”
“As we reflect on his life, let us be inspired to pursue excellence and service to our communities.”
He pledged to honour his memory through meaningful initiatives, saying, “We will ensure that his legacy lives on in our commitment to building a better Nigeria.”
“We will ensure that his spirit of service and commitment to the community continues to inspire future generations. It is our duty to carry forward the ideals he stood for,” Tinubu remarked.
Earlier in his address, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State called upon political leaders and their supporters to adopt a politics of development similar to that practiced by Chief Koleosho.
“We must imbibe the politics of development practiced by elder statesman, late Chief Michael Adeniyi Koleosho.”
“His commitment to the welfare of our people should inspire us all,” he urged.
Makinde highlighted the importance of cooperation among political factions, stating, “In unity, we can achieve more for our people and ensure that the dreams of leaders like Chief Koleosho are realised.”
The governor recounted the numerous contributions of Chief Koleosho to the growth and development of Saki and the broader Oyo State.
He announced his intention to sign a bill next week that will rename Oke-Ogun Polytechnic in honour of the late leader, a gesture that, he said, reflected the esteem in which he was held.
“Renaming this institution is not just an honour; it is a commitment to continue his legacy of education and empowerment,” he asserted.
Additionally, he revealed plans to rename a township road after Chief Koleosho, further solidifying his legacy in the community.
To honour the late elder statesman, Governor Makinde outlined several initiatives aimed at improving local infrastructure, including the rehabilitation of the Saki-Ogboro-Igboho road and the refurbishment of technical colleges in both Ibadan and Saki.
He also pledged to appoint permanent secretaries from the Oke-Ogun zone, ensuring representation and development in the region.
“These actions are not merely symbolic; they are steps towards a brighter future for our communities,” he added.
The President of the Nigerian Baptist Convention, Rev. Israel Akanbi, had, in his sermon titled “The Joy of Death,” encouraged the congregation to prioritise their spiritual and heavenly aspirations.
“Let us remember that our time on this earth is fleeting, and we must seek to leave a lasting legacy of love and service, Akanji urged.
He emphasised the importance of community and personal growth, saying, “We must find deeper meaning in the legacy of Chief Koleosho and strive for a life that uplifts others.”
“In times of loss, we must remember that life is not just about the physical. True fulfilment comes from serving others and leaving a positive legacy.”
He stressed the importance of leaving a positive legacy, reminding the congregation that true fulfilment comes from serving others.
“Let us not mourn merely the passing of a great man, but celebrate his life by committing ourselves to the values he cherished. Together, we can build a community that honours his memory through our actions and dedication.”
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