Amaechi a golden fish, an asset to my government – Buhari

Former President Muhammadu Buhari has described Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, former Governor of Rivers State and two-time Minister of Transportation, as “a golden fish” and “an asset to my government,” in a tribute marking Amaechi’s 60th birthday.

In a statement issued by his former spokesman, Garba Shehu, Buhari commended Amaechi’s significant role in national development, especially in the transportation sector.

“Amaechi shared with me the aspiration of strengthening infrastructure,” Buhari stated, “bridging the nation’s long-delayed gaps through the railway, a vital component, leading to its revival from a comatose state.”

Buhari highlighted Amaechi’s achievements in revitalizing the railway sector, noting that his efforts led to the completion of long-abandoned projects and the creation of new transport hubs. “He turned them into major transit hubs, and initiated major ones across the country, some of which were driven to completion before he left office,” the former president said.

Reflecting on the broader impact, Buhari noted: “The railway system which used to be the heartbeat of several towns and cities, killed and buried for decades, opened a new chapter under his leadership.” According to him, the transformation “faithfully served millions of Nigerians by increasing network capacity for passenger and freight services, helping to address demand, introducing new services and rolling stock, and improving safety.”

“Under him,” Buhari concluded, “the nation witnessed a new era of railway infrastructure. I wish him and his family many happy years ahead.”

The statement reaffirms Amaechi’s legacy as a central figure in the Buhari administration’s push for modernized infrastructure and national integration through transport reforms.