Encomium
The Minister of Works, (Engr.) David Umahi, has commended MTN Nigeria on the reconstruction of the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway. This 110km road serves as a critical link in the African transportation network.
The telco’s involvement in this project was announced in 2021 when it expressed intent to participate in the Road Infrastructure Tax Credit (RITC) Scheme. The RITC Scheme, a Public-Private Partnership (PPP), was introduced by President Muhammadu Buhari in 2019, as a model for Public-Private Partnership (PPP) in providing financial resources for the comprehensive reconstruction and rehabilitation of strategic roads, in exchange for tax credit.
Marking a significant milestone in its two-decade presence in Nigeria, MTN reiterated its unwavering commitment to sustainable development and the welfare of the communities it serves. During this celebration, Karl Toriola, Chief Executive Officer, MTN Nigeria, emphasized the pivotal role of road construction in promoting tourism, facilitating trade, stimulating economic growth, and fostering social development.
During a tour of the road project, Minister Umahi lauded MTN for providing the funds for the reconstruction of the road. “We are happy with the quality of work and the supervision of the contractors MTN”, he added.
Karl Toriola, Chief Executive Officer, MTN Nigeria also paid a courtesy visit to Umahi in Abuja, where he assured the minister of MTN’s commitment to the completion of the road. The Minister used the opportunity to appeal to MTN to take on more road projects, one of which would be the Ife-Ondo Road. “I am appealing that you take on three more projects, and one project that is very key to our people is Ife-Ondo Road. We will be having a powerful engagement with you on how we can start this”, he said. Speaking on the progress of the road and reinstating the organization’s commitment to the well-being of the communities it serves, Mr Toriola said “Without your tremendous support, we would not have gotten this far, we will be satisfactory to you and there will be no financial delay.” This collaborative effort between the government and private sector exemplifies a promising approach to addressing critical infrastructure needs in Nigeria, ultimately enhancing connectivity, commerce, and the overall well-being of the populace.
