NIGERIA – The National President of the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN), Comrade Muhammed Shehu, has called for a transformative approach to Nigeria’s infrastructure, emphasizing the need for innovation, sustainability, and resilience.
Speaking at the second edition of the Construction Projects Conference organized by the Nigeria Bar Association’s Section on Business Law (NBA-SBL), held in Asaba, Delta State Capital, Comrade Shebu highlighted the urgent need for systemic reforms, stressing that reliable infrastructure, particularly in the power sector, is essential for economic growth and national progress
With the State of Delta, a burgeoning hub of infrastructural development, serving as the backdrop, Shehu’s address focused on the theme of the event: “Making Construction & Infrastructure Projects Work Better,” encapsulating the need for a more efficient, innovative, and sustainable approach to the nation’s construction sector.
“This forum brings together visionaries, policymakers, and professionals united by a shared commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s construction and infrastructure landscape,” Shehu stated, underscoring the growing importance of the sector in a country poised for significant economic progress.
Infrastructure, Shehu argued, is the very bedrock upon which economic prosperity rests. He emphasized that the significance of infrastructure extends far beyond roads and bridges; it is the fundamental building block of any thriving society. Reflecting on the recent challenges facing the nation, particularly the collapse of the national electricity grid, Shehu made a compelling case for a renewed focus on resilient, well-planned infrastructure projects.
“Reliable electricity is the backbone of industrialization and economic growth,” he said. “Addressing systemic failures in our power sector is crucial to ensuring that infrastructure projects deliver their intended benefits.”
His statement struck a chord, drawing attention to the critical role that electricity and other core infrastructure play in driving industrial and economic growth, especially in the face of recurring power failures. It was clear from Shehu’s words that the urgency for change in how Nigeria approaches infrastructural planning and execution has never been greater.
Shehu was not hesitant in praising the strides made by Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori in terms of infrastructural development. He cited the impressive achievements of the governor in its ongoing efforts to modernize its infrastructure as a model for others to follow. Delta’s commitment to economic progress was recently acknowledged by This Day Newspapers, which conferred an award on Governor Elder Sheriff Oborevwori for his exceptional leadership in the realm of construction.
“In Delta State, we have seen firsthand how well-planned infrastructure can drive economic growth, create jobs, and improve the quality of life for citizens,” Shehu remarked, highlighting the significant impact that effective project execution can have at the state level.
This sentiment was echoed by the high-profile attendees of the conference, which featured the crème de la crème of Nigerian society, from senior government officials to business leaders, all united in their vision for a more robust infrastructure landscape.
As a union that represents senior civil servants in both the federal and state public services, the ASCSN is particularly attuned to the importance of a strong, efficient civil service in facilitating the implementation of infrastructure projects. Shehu reiterated the association’s commitment to supporting projects that are pivotal to national development, stating that civil servants, particularly those at the directorate cadre, play an integral role in ensuring that the projects are not only completed on time but are also executed with excellence.
“The ASCSN recognizes the importance of strong infrastructure in driving national progress. We will continue to support initiatives that further this cause,” he declared, pledging the union’s ongoing involvement in advocating for more efficient public service practices that contribute to the overall success of national infrastructure efforts.
In closing, Shehu expressed his deep appreciation to the organizers of the conference for creating a platform that facilitates dialogue among key stakeholders. “Creating a platform for meaningful dialogue among such esteemed individuals is no small feat,” he said, acknowledging the hard work and foresight of the event’s coordinators.
As the conference unfolded, it became clear that the discussions held here would not only shape the future of Delta State’s infrastructure but would have ripple effects throughout Nigeria.
Shehu’s words were a clarion call to all attendees: to leverage the knowledge and experiences shared at the conference in order to drive lasting, transformative progress in the nation’s construction and infrastructure sectors.
As the participants filed out of the conference hall, it was evident that the conversations and solutions shared would continue to resonate, hopefully paving the way for the much-needed overhaul in Nigeria’s infrastructure policies and practices.
In a nation where growth is often stymied by poor infrastructure, Shehu’s address was a beacon of hope. It was a vision not just for Delta State, but for Nigeria’s future, one where resilient infrastructure becomes the backbone of an economy capable of supporting the aspirations of its people.
Speaking to journalists at the conclusion of the event, Dr. Bolum Nwachukwu, Chairman of the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria in Delta State, praised NBA-SBL for hosting an insightful and impactful programme.
He also commended the State Governor for his consistent commitment to the development of the State and supportive policies that prioritize the needs of workers in the state.
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