THE Honourable Minister of State for Works, Rt. Hon. Muhammad Bello Goronyo, has underscored the critical role of professionals in Nigeria’s development, calling for stronger collaboration, mentorship, and engagement with government to accelerate growth at both state and national levels.
News Point Nigeria reports that Goronyo made the call on Thursday while delivering a keynote address at the 3rd Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Sokoto Professionals Network, held on December 26, 2025, with the theme “Expanding Horizons, Strengthening Bonds.”
Addressing a gathering of respected elders, professionals, and community leaders, the minister conveyed warm greetings from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Federal Ministry of Works, while commending the Network for sustaining a credible platform that unites professionals across diverse sectors in the interest of Sokoto State and Nigeria at large.
He described the AGM theme as timely and reflective of Nigeria’s current realities, noting that “expanding horizons” speaks to growth in knowledge, innovation, and global competitiveness, while “strengthening bonds” highlights the importance of unity, collaboration, and shared responsibility.
“In today’s interconnected world, progress is no longer driven by isolated efforts,” Goronyo said. “It is driven by strong networks built on trust, professionalism, and a common vision.”
The minister emphasized that professionals, including engineers, doctors, educators, lawyers, entrepreneurs, and technologists, remain central to nation-building, as their expertise shapes institutions, builds infrastructure, and drives economic growth.
According to him, Nigeria’s development trajectory depends on how effectively professionals convert knowledge into practical solutions and individual achievements into collective societal impact.
He noted that platforms such as the Sokoto Professionals Network are vital for mentorship, policy engagement, and meaningful contributions to development.
Speaking specifically on infrastructure, Goronyo described it as a critical catalyst for expanding economic and social opportunities. He said roads, bridges, and transport corridors go beyond physical construction, serving as enablers of commerce, education, healthcare delivery, security, and national integration.
Under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, the minister reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to improving the quality, reach, and sustainability of infrastructure nationwide, while promoting professionalism, accountability, and local capacity in project execution.
“Government alone cannot achieve these objectives without the support and expertise of organized professionals,” he stressed.
Goronyo urged members of the Sokoto Professionals Network to strengthen bonds within and beyond the association between senior professionals and young graduates, between those at home and in the diaspora, and between professionals and government institutions.
He noted that strong professional bonds encourage the exchange of ideas, build trust, and fast-track development, adding that a united and constructive professional voice can significantly influence policy formulation, innovation, and community development.
As deliberations continued at the AGM, the minister challenged members to deepen mentorship, uphold ethical standards, embrace innovation, and remain united in purpose.
“By expanding your horizons, you position Sokoto professionals for global relevance; by strengthening your bonds, you create lasting value for society,” he said.
Goronyo commended the leadership and resilience of the Sokoto Professionals Network, expressing confidence that its impact would continue to grow in the coming years.
He concluded by offering prayers for the Network, Sokoto State, and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
