The Senior Special Assistant to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister on Public Communications and New Media, Lere Olayinka, has rebuked former Minister of Youth and Sports, Solomon Dalung, over his assertion that road construction projects in the FCT do not constitute development.
Olayinka, in a statement on Friday, described Dalung’s remarks as “a dire exhibition of a mind transitioning from psychology to psychosis,” criticizing the former minister for what he termed a “jaundiced and unfortunate” understanding of development.
Dalung, during a live television appearance, had argued that road construction does not impact the general well-being of Nigerians, claiming that many citizens do not own vehicles and therefore cannot benefit from such projects.
FCT Road Projects as Pillars of Development
Responding to these claims, Olayinka highlighted several road projects undertaken by the administration of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, emphasizing their transformative impact on the lives of residents.
Projects such as the Saburi–Dei Dei road, the 5km Dutse-Usuma Dam road, and the War College/Army Checkpoint road were identified as critical to improving connectivity within the Bwari Area Council. In addition, the 25km Kwaita/Yebu road in Kwali Area Council, the 11km Yangoji-Sukuku-Ebo road, and the 9km Paikon Kore/Ibwa road were cited as key infrastructure developments.
“In Dalung’s estimation, even these projects, when completed, will not serve any developmental purpose. It is shocking that someone with such a shallow understanding of development was once a minister,” Olayinka stated.
He also referenced other vital projects, including the 12km Kabusa–Ketti road, the 7km Kabusa–Takushara road, and the 15km road from the Abuja-Lokoja junction to Pia in Kwali Area Council. These projects, he stressed, are designed to connect satellite towns and enhance the quality of life for residents.
Criticism of Dalung’s Tenure
Olayinka did not hold back in criticizing Dalung’s tenure as sports minister, describing it as “monumentally disastrous.” He recalled incidents such as Dalung’s dismissive remarks about the delayed allowances of the Super Falcons during the 2016 African Women Championship and his controversial comments on the Rio 2016 Olympics soccer team.
“Considering his track record, one should not be surprised at his wild comments. However, the concern of Nigerians, especially those close to him, should be his mental health, which increasingly appears to require urgent attention,” Olayinka concluded.
Reinforcing the FCT’s Development Agenda
The statement underscores the FCT administration’s commitment to road development as a cornerstone of infrastructural growth, directly challenging Dalung’s controversial views. Olayinka reiterated that the ongoing road projects are integral to improving the economy, connectivity, and overall well-being of FCT residents.
