Seedy Njie, deputy speaker of the National Assembly, has described the turnout during President Adama Barrow’s nationwide tour as “unprecedented,” saying it reflects strong public support and confidence in the president’s leadership.

Njie, who accompanied Barrow along with senior officials of the National People’s Party (NPP), said the crowds seen across the country “have never happened in the history of The Gambia.”

He argued that the reception demonstrates that Gambians “love and support President Barrow” and praised the government’s development efforts.

President Barrow, speaking at the conclusion of the tour, said he was encouraged by the engagement and appreciation shown by citizens.

“The people came out in their large numbers and engaged with my officials. They appreciated the projects we have implemented,” he said.

The president highlighted progress in decentralisation, noting that real devolution of power to local councils is now taking shape, even as challenges remain. Infrastructure, particularly road projects in historically marginalised communities, was a central theme of the tour.

Barrow announced that the government would soon launch a 500-metre road project as part of broader plans to improve connectivity across the country.

Electricity access was another focus of the tour. Barrow said 75 percent of the national electrification programme has been completed and that the government aims to connect 90 percent of households by the end of 2026. Residents, he added, expressed satisfaction with the improvements so far.

Mr Njie said the strong public response also signals confidence in the government’s future plans. “President Barrow is going to triple the developments he has delivered to Gambians,” he said, noting that citizens’ feedback would help shape upcoming projects and initiatives.

The constitutionally mandated nationwide tour allows the president to meet citizens directly, assess community needs, and outline development priorities.

Mr Njie’s remarks linked the positive turnout to Barrow’s leadership and underscored the NPP’s view that the government’s agenda enjoys widespread approval.

By Adama Makasuba