Senator Neda Imasuen of Edo South addresses the significant procurement challenges hindering community projects. Despite delays, he highlights his efforts in road grading, solar lighting, and educational support.
In a recent FOCAL POINT interview from the Apex Chamber (Senate) with Nancy Okafor, Senator Neda Imasuen of Edo South Senatorial District highlighted the significant challenges posed by slow procurement processes. As the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petition, Senator Imasuen voiced his concerns over the delays that have impacted his ability to deliver critical projects to his constituents.
“The procurement process is a very slow one,” Senator Imasuen explained. “We are now in the month of July, and procurement is still ongoing. If these projects are not funded by July, then a majority will not be completed by December. This is a setback for what we have set out to do.”
Despite these challenges, Senator Neda Imasuen shared some of the accomplishments he has been able to achieve. During the dry season, he responded to demands for road grading in various villages. “I rose to the occasion to grade roads before the rains set in again,” he said. Additionally, he has been providing solar lights to communities, an ongoing effort that aims to improve living conditions in his constituency.
Education is another area where Senator Imasuen has made significant strides. In collaboration with Global Polytechnic, he has facilitated the admission of over 400 students, offering opportunities to those who otherwise might not have access to higher education. “We are trying to help the education sector and give opportunities to those who are not able to help themselves,” he noted.
Moreover, Senator Neda Imasuen has initiated a training program for aspiring fashion designers. “I am selecting 10 fashion designers to bring to Abuja for training. The goal is to provide them with the skills and equipment needed to start their own businesses, potentially creating more jobs in the process,” he explained.
Community development efforts have also included providing palliatives such as rice to markets, IDP camps, churches, and mosques. “We are trying to alleviate the sufferings of our people who are challenged daily to put food on the table,” he said.
Senator Imasuen expressed frustration shared by many of his colleagues in the Senate, emphasizing the need for the government to address these procurement issues promptly. “We are doing the best we can, and I believe that once our projects are captured in the budget and implemented, there will be a significant impact.”
In addition to procurement challenges, Senator Imasuen discussed broader issues affecting his constituency, including insecurity and its impact on agriculture. “Farmers are not able to go to their farms due to insecurity, which affects food production,” he stated. While acknowledging the limitations of his role as a senator, he called on the executive branch to fulfill its constitutional responsibility of providing security for lives and property.
As Nigerians prepare for the planned nationwide protests on August 1, 2024, against economic hardship, Senator Neda Imasuen’s insights highlight the critical issues of procurement and governance that continue to affect development in Edo South and beyond. WATCH FULL INTERVIEW BELOW:
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