During the inauguration of the Rumuokuta Flyover in Port Harcourt, President-elect Asiwaju Bola Tinubu responded to Governor Nyesom Wike's request for refunds on federal projects undertaken by states of the federation. Tinubu informed Wike that he did not owe him anything, but added that Wike would need to persuade him to collect any funds.

Governor Wike explained to Tinubu the reason behind his request and why his administration has been successful in delivering a number of significant projects without any major issues. According to Wike, the reason why some projects remain incomplete is due to the strict adherence to procurement laws. He argued that following these laws could result in longer project completion times.

Wike also pointed out that giving a contractor only 15% of the funds allocated to a project could be problematic, as inflation could result in a rise in the cost of materials before the next payment is made. This could lead to the contractor requesting a variation of the initial contract to account for the increased costs.

Regarding his own administration's practices, Wike contacted the Speaker to express his concerns and made changes to the procurement laws. These changes gave his administration the flexibility to pay up to 70% of the funds allocated to a company that was deemed capable of completing the project within the agreed-upon timeline.

This explains why all the projects being executed by Julius Berger (JB) are now completed. Currently, we are in the process of dualizing the road from Ahoada to Omoku to Egbema, leading to the boundary with Imo State, which is also being handled by Julius Berger. Additionally, we are dualizing the road from Emohua, East West, to Degema Junction, which is also being executed by JB.

The cost for these projects amounted to roughly N80 billion. We relied on our Internally Generated Revenue, and allocated N4 billion monthly to ensure the completion of the project within 18 months. This approach has been successful, as we have never failed to complete any of our projects on time.

However, it is important to note that these projects are actually Federal Government roads, and we do not want our people to suffer due to the delay in completing these projects. Therefore, we believe the Federal Government should refund the money spent so that our people can have access to these completed roads.

I would like to assure you that once you assume office and approve the refund of these monies, other states will likely follow suit. This is why we are making this refund request our top priority.

In response, the President-elect informed Wike that he did not owe him anything regarding the refund request, as it was Wike's responsibility to maintain the roads. Tinubu praised Wike's efforts and acknowledged their growing relationship, stating that his visit to Rivers was a promise fulfilled. Tinubu further added that Governor Wike is a dependable individual with admirable character.

Tinubu acknowledged that it is Wike's admirable character that has enabled him to fulfill his promise made during the election campaign. He expressed his happiness in establishing a relationship with the outgoing governor and praised him for bringing joy, excitement, and development to the state, which is something the country can look forward to.