By Ejire Folakunmi
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the Ministers of Finance and Budget, as well as the Head of Service, to propose measures to mitigate the economic impact of the ongoing Middle East crisis on Nigerians.
Pres. Tinubu gave the directive on April 10, 2026, during a civic reception in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, after commissioning projects executed by Gov. Douye Diri.
He acknowledged the economic pressures facing Nigerians, including rising fuel costs, but assured that the Federal Government is working to cushion the effects.
“Yes, I hear you from various angles of the economy. Fuel prices are biting hard, but we must also appreciate that Nigeria is not alone, considering developments in other African countries,” he said.
The President reiterated that his administration remains committed to improving the welfare of citizens, particularly the vulnerable.
“This is a government that cares. We will work with the Ministry of Finance and Budget to review the numbers and take necessary actions,” he added.
Pres. Tinubu noted that the All Progressives Congress (APC) remains focused on delivering tangible development through infrastructure, jobs, and economic opportunities.
“Governance must translate into roads, bridges, power, jobs, and real opportunities that directly impact the lives of the people,” he said.
He emphasised the importance of collaboration between the Federal and State governments, stating that development progresses faster when both tiers work towards a shared goal.
The President commended Gov. Diri for executing impactful projects aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda, including the 60MW gas-fired Independent Power Plant (IPP) in Elebele, Ogbia LGA, the 630-metre Angiama–Oporoma Bridge, and the New Yenagoa City Road.
“Douye, you have done well. These projects are transformative, creating opportunities, jobs, and hope for the people,” he said.
Pres. Tinubu also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving power supply, recalling his efforts in establishing the Independent Power Plant during his tenure as Lagos State governor.
He assured that the Federal Government will continue to partner with states to drive job creation, infrastructure development, and skills empowerment.
At the event, the President observed a minute’s silence in honour of fallen military personnel and the late former governor of Bayelsa State, DSP Alamieyeseigha.
Earlier, he inaugurated several projects, including the 60MW gas-fired IPP, the Angiama–Oporoma Bridge, and key road infrastructure in Yenagoa.
In his remarks, Gov. Diri said the President’s policy interventions enabled the state to deliver the power project and move closer to energy independence.
“Your administration’s reforms have created the enabling environment for us to achieve reliable power supply through this project,” he said.
The governor described the projects as critical to improving electricity supply, boosting economic activities, and enhancing residents’ quality of life.
He noted that the Angiama–Oporoma Bridge addresses a long-standing connectivity challenge in the state, while new road infrastructure will unlock economic opportunities and support the development of a modern capital city.
Diri added that the projects are part of the state’s Assured Prosperity agenda, which includes major infrastructure linking the three senatorial districts to the Atlantic Ocean.
He also listed ongoing projects, including a 30,000-capacity stadium, a nine-storey state secretariat, and additional roads and bridges connecting riverine communities.
The governor commended Pres. Tinubu for approving waivers for the importation of turbines and equipment for the power project, as well as the award of Phase 2 of the Nembe-Brass Road.