HIS EXCELLENCY, RT. HON. AHMADU UMARU FINTIRI, CON. GOVERNOR OF ADAMAWA STATE, AT THE OFFICIAL FLAG-OFF CEREMONY OF THE CONSTRUCTION OF JIMETA ULTRA- MODERN SHOPPING COMPLEX FEBRUARY 10, 2025 Protocol: I welcome you to the official ground-breaking and flag-off ceremony of the construction of the JimetaModern Shopping Complex. This indeed is one project that partly defines how we think as a government when it comes to the development, progress and prosperity of our dear state. On matters like this, Adamawa state comes first, our people are at the centre of the decision and our oath dictates our direction. Once these triple conditions are met, we neither waver, nor do we succumb to pedestrian blackmails contrived by cheap political jobbers. The Jimeta Ultra-modern Shopping complex is a landmark initiative which is not just about building a structure; it is about creating an enduring legacy, a vibrant commercial hub, and an environment that will attract investments, foster economic growth, and create jobs for our youth and our people in general. It is set to become a key part of the economic landscape of Adamawa State, bringing together both modern retail spaces and state-of-the-art facility. This is part of our broader vision to modernize the urban and rural landscape of Adamawa, promote sustainable growth and provide our people with the opportunities they deserve. It is a clear manifestation of our administration's commitment to economic diversification aimed at harnessing the potential of commerce, tourism, and technology to create a resilient economy that works for everyone. When completed, the Jimeta Modern Shopping Complex will be more than just a mall. It will be a vibrant commercial hub that will feature high-end retail outlets, food courts, office spaces, recreational areas, and much more. This will attract investors and traders from within and outside the state, contributing significantly to the local economy. The complex will serve as a key driver of economic activity, attracting customers and visitors alike, while creating job opportunities in construction, retail, security, management, and hospitality sectors. In addition, it will provide a platform for small and medium-scale businesses to thrive, empowering local entrepreneurs and driving economic inclusivity. Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, I call upon all stakeholders - the contractors, local government officials, business leaders, and citizens of Adamawa to work together towards the successful completion of this complex. The project is awarded at Nineteen Billion, Seven Hundred Million, Three Hundred and Eighty-two Thousand, Sixty-Three Naira, Fifty-six Kobo,only(₦19,700,382,063.56), with a completion period of 18 months. To ensure timely completion with precision the project is broken into three LOTs and respectively awarded to three reputable contractors - LOT 1 – LUBELL Nig. LTD; LOT 2- MaduguCommercial and Construction Company; and LOT3 – AMIJAPP Nig, Ltd.   Working with the best technical consultant – MssrAssociated Design Consultants, we shall monitor this project closely to ensure timely completion and the delivery of a world-class facility that will stand as a beacon of excellence for generations to come. I must quickly call on the Adamawa State traders and the entire commercial community, to hasten and strategically work with the ministry of commerce to centrally take ownership of this project instead of brooding somewhere and waiting in vain for when the project will fail. Like many projects of this government, we have never initiated a project that we cannot complete. This is our trademark. This is the new Adamawa state where no one is left behind and nothing is left untouched. With pride, I therefore, officially flag off the construction of the Jimeta Ultra-modern Shopping Complex. It is my fervent hope that we shall be backhere in the next few months to commission it to the glory of God.   Thank you and God bless.