While inaugurating the ultra-modern Ikeja Bus Terminal on Thursday, the first day of his ongoing visit to Lagos state, President Buhari lauded Governor Akinwunmi Ambode for catering for the movement of the growing population of the state and making modern buses available to the people. He declared, “I acknowledge the vision of Lagos State government to revamping the railway transportation system. Presently, we have outlined in new-year message of the plan for a-pan African railway transportation. I commend Lagos State for also developing rail infrastructure to cater for movement of its growing population,” The President promised that the federal government would adhere to its plan for transport infrastructure, especially the ports.
In his remarks, Governor Ambode said the bus terminal signposted the commitment of his administration to provide a functional, efficient and integrated transport system to support the populace and facilitate commerce. He said, “The first phase of this program will see 13 new bus terminals introduced, including major terminals at Oshodi, Yaba, Ojota, Agege and the already completed Tafawa Balewa terminal”.
President Buhari also attended the 10th colloquium, marking the 66th birthday anniversary of the leader of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Bola Tinubu, at the Eko Convention Center. At the event, President Buhari joined other leaders and well-wishers, including Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo, and Governor Ambode, to extol the political dexterity of the former Lagos State governor.
The colloquium was graced by many dignitaries including State Governors – Abdualfatah Ahmed (Kwara), Ibikunle Amosu (Ogun), Abiola Ajimobi (Oyo), Rotimi Akeredolu (Ondo); Godwin Obaseki (Edo); Rochas Okorocha (Imo); Nasir El-Rufai (Kaduna). Many Senators such as Barnabas Gemade, Ben Bruce, Andy Uba and George Borofice, also graced the occasion. The Oba of Lagos, Rilwanu Akiolu, was the royal father of the day.
In his remarks, President Buhari described Chief Tinubu as a widely known political strategist, who set himself apart in order to care about people. The President said his administration appreciates the celebrant’s contributions to the development of Nigeria.
Meanwhile, reports say that thousands of Lagos residents suffered the gridlock caused at different locations in the city as a result of President Buhari’s visit to the state. The state government restricted public movement in certain areas during the president’s visit, promising that alternative routes would be created. Some self-employed residents expressed disappointment over the way security operatives handled the situation, keeping them helpless by blocking most of the routes to their work places.
