A cleric and philanthropist, Prophet Sam Olu-Alo, has urged Southwest Governors to collaborate with the newly formed Southwest Development Commission and invest in the construction of an interstate speed rail network to boost connectivity and economic growth of the region.
The cleric, the Planter, Grace of Mercy Prayer Mountain Worldwide, stated that the transformative potential of the proposed project was enormous if the governors could tap into it.
During an interview, Olu-Alo noted that linking the six Southwest states with a modern railway system will create jobs for many unemployed Nigerians, particularly the youths, ease traveling burdens, and generate revenue for southwest states.
He said, “Imagine a seamless rail network connecting no less than 44 cities and towns in our region. This is not just about infrastructure; it is about restoring the Southwest to its position as Nigeria’s economic hub. This project will empower our people, drive commerce, and uplift countless communities.”
According to him, southwest as a whole needs good road infrastructure, citing the example of a Senator from Osun State, who revoked a road contract to a contractor due to using substandard materials, saying roads across the region would have been better off if others could emulate that.
The cleric, who hailed Oyo Governor Seyi Makinde for his strides in road construction in the State, lamented the poor state of road infrastructure in several border areas between Southwest States and Kogi.
He said the people of Ekiti are commending Governor Abiodun Oyebanji for his efforts, urging him to do more for the state.
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He urged leaders in the region to adopt a united front and collaborate on a shared vision for a speed rail project, which according to him, would serve as a legacy for generations to come.
“Governance is not about political parties but about the people, our elder statesmen, monarchs, and stakeholders must rally the governors to act decisively. Let us leave behind a legacy of collaboration and regional development,” he said.
He advocated for the passage of a project continuity bill, which would ensure that critical infrastructural projects are not abandoned by succeeding administrations, thus preventing waste of public resources.
The Prophet called on President Bola Tinubu and the governors to intensify efforts to combat insecurity, especially to protect farmers who face threats in their line of work.
Source: The Nation
