Tinubu’s Reforms Boost States’ Capacity for Development, Says Onanuga

The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, has said that the economic reforms introduced by President Bola Tinubu have significantly increased the financial resources available to state governments, enabling them to execute more developmental projects.

Onanuga made the remark on Tuesday in Umuahia, Abia State, during a reception organised for members of the Renewed Hope Projects media tour. The team is visiting selected projects implemented by the Abia State Government in collaboration with the Federal Government, as well as projects solely executed by the state.

He explained that the media tour was designed to give journalists the opportunity to independently assess key federal and state projects while witnessing firsthand the development taking place across the country.

According to him, the growing collaboration between the Federal Government and state governments is yielding positive results for Nigerians.

“The federal and state governments are working together for the progress of Nigerians. The resources now available to states are enabling them to undertake projects that improve the lives of citizens,” Onanuga said.

Also speaking at the event, Abia State Governor Alex Otti, represented by his deputy, Ikechukwu Emetu, described the media tour as an important initiative that promotes transparency, accountability and public awareness of government policies and projects.

Otti stressed the critical role of the media in providing accurate and balanced information to the public, urging journalists to go beyond reporting events by providing context and truth in their coverage.

“Our administration has, over the past three years, remained committed to rebuilding public trust through transparent governance, improving infrastructure, enhancing security, revitalising education and healthcare, supporting businesses and creating an enabling environment for economic growth and investment,” he said.

The governor added that the state’s progress is evident not only in official records but also in the renewed confidence of residents and the visible transformation of communities, which he said aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda.

He also commended the Presidency for organising the media tour, noting that it offers Nigerians the opportunity to receive firsthand information about government projects and their impact.

Otti further emphasised the need to mentor the next generation of journalists, saying the future of the profession depends on young practitioners who are equipped with both professional competence and ethical values.

“As they venture into various aspects of journalism, whether print, broadcast, digital media, investigative reporting, public affairs or development communication, it is imperative that they are equipped not only with technical skills but also with strong ethical values, integrity and commitment to the public good.

“We need young professionals who understand that journalism is not merely a profession but a public trust. We welcome scrutiny because we believe that genuine progress should be seen, assessed and reported objectively,” he said.

Earlier, the Abia State Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, welcomed members of the media team and urged them to carry out the assignment with professionalism, objectivity and dedication to the truth.

“Your reports will help shape public understanding of the efforts being made by governments at different levels to address national challenges and improve the lives of our citizens,” Kanu said.