The Federal Government has announced plans to mobilise 4,000 social media influencers to publicise its infrastructure projects and achievements as Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections. Minister of Works David Umahi disclosed the initiative on Tuesday, September 22, in Abuja while receiving a report from the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) on its inspection of federal road projects across four northern states.
Why the FG Needs 4,000 Influencers
Umahi said the proposed network would strengthen the government's social media presence and help communicate its infrastructure achievements directly to Nigerians, particularly young people, as reported by The Punch. The minister explained that the government needed to strengthen its online communication and ensure Nigerians received information about ongoing and completed infrastructure projects.
He described social media as an important platform for communicating the achievements of President Bola Tinubu's administration. "We have to fight this social media war. So, we have to launch 4,000 social media influencers to tell our stories," Umahi declared. He sought advice from the student leaders on implementing the initiative, stressing that the administration needed to communicate its achievements more effectively.
Students Inspect Federal Roads in Four States
The announcement followed the presentation of findings by NANS leaders who inspected federal road projects across Kano, Jigawa, Kaduna, and Sokoto states. The students identified infrastructure gaps, particularly around tertiary institutions, and requested additional pedestrian bridges to improve safety.
Responding, Umahi promised that the ministry would consider their recommendations and incorporate pedestrian bridges and access roads into future projects where possible. He also commended the students for inspecting government projects firsthand rather than relying exclusively on information circulating online.
November 2026 Deadline for Coastal Highway
Meanwhile, Umahi disclosed that the main pavement covering 105 kilometres of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway was expected to be completed by November 2026. However, he expressed concern over vandalism along the highway, describing damage to newly constructed infrastructure as unacceptable.
The minister said some motorists were driving through restricted construction areas, while vandals were removing metal components and damaging block walls. He urged Nigerians to protect public infrastructure, warning that continued destruction could undermine investments intended to improve transportation and economic activities.
The minister maintained that citizens should independently inspect public projects and provide feedback on areas requiring further government intervention, according to a ThisDay report. The initiative comes ahead of the 2027 general elections, although the minister did not disclose the proposed influencers' remuneration, recruitment criteria, or when the initiative would commence.
