The Digest:
Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has expressed support for the Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway project but criticised President Bola Tinubu's request for a $516 million foreign loan to fund it. In a statement, Atiku said infrastructure development is desirable, but "noble intentions cannot excuse reckless fiscal choices." He raised concerns about the lack of transparency, questioning why the project was awarded to Hitech Construction Company without competitive bidding. He warned that Nigeria is "already groaning under the weight of unsustainable debt."
Key Points:
- Atiku said borrowing must not replace creativity in governance.
- He compared the project to the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway controversy.
- He accused the government of channelling borrowed funds to cronies without due process.
- He called on the National Assembly to scrutinise the loan request thoroughly.
- He warned that debt accumulation without transparency is "postponement of crisis."
Atiku called for responsible financing and transparency in infrastructure projects.
Sources: Daily Trust, Tribune Online
