Criticise Us Constructively, Not With Insults, Umahi Says, Flags Off Kaduna-Birnin Gwari Road

The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has called on critics of the Federal Government to embrace constructive criticism, insisting that democracy is strengthened by offering alternatives rather than resorting to insults and deceit.

Speaking during the flag-off of the 122 km Kaduna-Birnin Gwari road in Kaduna State on Wednesday, Umahi said those opposed to the Tinubu administration should focus on issue-based engagement.

“Democracy is about choices. Those criticising us should criticise us constructively, and they should offer alternatives. Democracy is not about insults; it is not about deceit,” he said.

Umahi also used the occasion to commend Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, describing him as a committed democrat whose experience during the pro-democracy struggle shaped his style of leadership.

“I am not surprised by what you are doing in Kaduna State. As a man who fought alongside our President during the dark days of NADECO and was unjustly put in jail, you understand the meaning of democracy and the welfare of the people,” the minister said.

He praised the governor for uniting the people of Kaduna State and delivering infrastructure projects, adding that the state’s security situation has improved significantly.

The minister further applauded Governor Sani for persistently advocating for the reconstruction of the Abuja–Kaduna–Zaria–Kano highway, describing it as one of the most important roads in Northern Nigeria.

According to Umahi, the first 118-kilometre section of the highway has been completed for ₦252 billion and will be fitted with solar-powered streetlights before commissioning.

He also disclosed that President Bola Tinubu has approved a 50-kilometre intra-city light rail project for Kaduna State, valued at $868 million, making it the second urban light rail system in Nigeria after Lagos.

Highlighting the administration’s infrastructure drive, Umahi said the Federal Government is reconstructing critical highways across the country, including the Kaduna–Birnin Gwari, Sokoto–Zamfara–Funtua–Zaria and Enugu–Port Harcourt roads, describing them as strategic projects aimed at boosting economic activities and improving connectivity.

He expressed confidence in the partnership between President Tinubu and Governor Sani, saying their collaboration would continue to deliver development for Kaduna State and the country.