The Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, has said recent economic reforms introduced by the Federal Government are giving states greater financial capacity to execute development projects and improve the lives of citizens.
Onanuga made the remarks on Tuesday in Umuahia, Abia State, during a reception held for members of the Renewed Hope Projects media tour.
The media team was in the state to inspect projects delivered through collaboration between the Federal Government and the Abia State Government, alongside initiatives independently undertaken by the state administration.
Speaking at the event, Onanuga said the media tour was designed to provide participants with firsthand insight into government projects and encourage objective assessment of developmental efforts across the country.
He stressed that stronger cooperation between federal and state governments remains essential to achieving national growth and improving living conditions.
“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,” he said.
Also speaking at the event, Abia State Governor Alex Otti, represented by his deputy, Ikechukwu Emetu, described the visit as an important initiative aimed at strengthening transparency, accountability and public understanding of government policies and projects.
According to Otti, the media plays a critical role in informing the public and should go beyond reporting events by providing context, balance and factual coverage.
He said his administration had, over the past three years, focused on restoring public confidence through transparent governance, infrastructure development, improved security and investments in key sectors.
“Our administration remains committed to rebuilding public trust, improving infrastructure, enhancing security, revitalising education and healthcare, supporting businesses and creating an enabling environment for economic growth and investment,” the governor stated.
He added that the impact of government policies should not only be measured through statistics but through visible changes experienced by residents and communities.
Otti also commended the Presidency for organising the media tour, saying it offers Nigerians direct access to information about ongoing government projects.
The governor further used the occasion to call for stronger mentorship of young journalists, stressing that the future of the media profession depends on preparing the next generation with both professional competence and ethical standards.
He urged upcoming journalists to embrace integrity, objectivity and public service regardless of the area of journalism they choose to pursue.
Earlier in his welcome remarks, the Abia State Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, encouraged members of the media delegation to carry out their assignment professionally and objectively.
He noted that accurate reporting remains important in helping citizens understand government efforts aimed at addressing national challenges and improving living standards.
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