By CHARLES KUMOLU

LAGOS—COORDINATING Minister for the Economy and Minister of Finance, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has said the Federal Government will continue to enhance urban transformation, to reduce the effects of the partial removal of fuel subsidy.

She also said the administration of President Goodluck Jonathan is recording gains in its efforts at making Nigeria a global economic giant.

Okonjo-Iweala, who spoke in Lagos, while receiving the Silverbird 2012 Man of the Year Award, expressed optimism that the nation would overcome its current multifaceted challenges.

The minister said: “It is an honour to serve your country. I know we are facing challenges. But I have experience of over 30 years of travelling to over 60 countries of the world. From my experience, I am an unapologetic believer in Nigeria. This is because this administration is doing its best to make Nigeria among the best economies in the world.”

‘’I will not say that the President is not on the side of the poor people, the Jonathan administration is on the side of the poor people of Nigeria. On the issues raised on urban transportation, I am pleased to respond by saying that the government is also working hard to enhance urban transportation, given the partial fuel subsidy removal.’’

Also speaking at the event, Anambra State Governor, Mr. Peter Obi, described the award as deserving.

Obi called on Nigerians to emulate the minister’s virtues, adding that the award did not have any financial implication.

Similarly, Bauchi State Governor, Mr. Isa Yuguda, who presented the award to Okonjo-Iweala, described her as a gift to Nigeria, saying “she has made a difference in this country, despite her level of education. She is an embodiment of humility. Amongst her numerous achievements was the establishment of the Debt Management Office, which paved the way for the debt relief and Nigeria’s first sovereign rating.”