By Juliet Ezeh
YOLA, Adamawa State – President Bola Tinubu on Monday delivered strong political praise for Governor Ahmadu Fintiri, describing him as a symbol of “renewed hope” and a subnational leader whose infrastructure drive aligns with the Federal Government’s national development agenda.
On his first official visit to Adamawa State since assuming office, Tinubu commended what he called transformative projects spanning education, transportation, and judicial infrastructure, declaring that Fintiri would leave the state “far better” than he met it.
“You shocked me with what I saw and commissioned today,” the President said, pointing to newly built schools and road networks as strategic investments against poverty and insecurity. “The schools you build are weapons for fighting poverty, insecurity, and boosting the economy.”
A Political Signal Beyond Infrastructure
Tinubu’s remarks carried significance beyond ceremonial commissioning. His endorsement of Fintiri a governor from an opposition political platform was widely interpreted as a gesture toward bipartisan cooperation amid Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
The President stressed that governance must rise above party lines, urging Nigerians to unite in building a country that serves both present and future generations. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to combating insecurity and strengthening national stability.
Projects Commissioned
During the visit, Tinubu commissioned the Model School along Airport Road, part of a broader initiative establishing 21 model schools across Adamawa’s 21 local government areas. He also inaugurated the eight-lane expanded Galadima Aminu Way, which features a flyover, underpass, and roundabout, and laid the foundation for a new NYSC permanent orientation camp. The President further unveiled the newly constructed Government House office complex.
Governor Fintiri disclosed that the Yola Model School project cost ₦24.8 billion, while the Galadima Aminu Way expansion and related road projects amounted to ₦15.6 billion. He added that the remodeled State High Court Complex cost ₦5.5 billion, while the automated gate and new Government House office complex were executed at ₦6.3 billion.
“Nigeria’s Best Tailor”
In a symbolic endorsement of federal leadership, Fintiri described Tinubu as “Nigeria’s best tailor,” urging him to remain courageous in making difficult decisions for national progress.
“However expensive a garment is, it only makes sense when it is tailored to fit the body,” the governor said. “Continue to have the courage to make the toughest decisions for the good of the country.”
The President was accompanied by governors, former governors, ministers, senators, and the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, underscoring the high-level political significance of the visit.
Tinubu’s Adamawa engagement reinforces a broader message from the Presidency: infrastructure delivery and strategic collaboration between federal and state governments remain central pillars in Nigeria’s pursuit of economic recovery, security, and long-term national development.
Juliet Ezeh is the founder and chief reporter at Westbridge Reporters with over 7 years of experience in journalism. She covers crime, industry, policy, and social developments, delivering timely and accurate reporting.