Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources Ahmed Shiyam has called on voters in Lhaviyani Naifaru to support People’s National Congress (PNC) candidates contesting in the upcoming Council Elections, stating that their victory is essential to accelerate development projects on the island.

Shiyam made the remarks in a social media post shared alongside a photo of the PNC candidates vying for seats on the Naifaru Council. The Minister, who previously served two terms as the Member of Parliament for the Naifaru constituency, highlighted his longstanding ties to the island while urging residents to deliver a decisive electoral victory for the candidates.

Describing Naifaru as one of the most populous islands in the Maldives, the Minister said that despite its significance, the island has long faced major challenges that remain unresolved. He stated that the current Government, under the leadership of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, has initiated concrete efforts to secure Naifaru’s rightful position in the national development agenda.

Referring to commitments made during the Presidential Election campaign, Shiyam said residents are now witnessing those pledges being translated into tangible projects. He highlighted that road construction across the island is planned, along with land reclamation efforts aimed at doubling the island’s size to address longstanding land constraints. In addition, 800 housing units are set to be developed to tackle housing shortages, while the existing harbour will be expanded and upgraded, alongside plans to construct an additional harbour to ease congestion.

The Minister also noted that a new school building equipped with laboratories, additional classrooms and modern facilities is to be developed. Lhaviyani Atoll Hospital is to be upgraded with improved services and modern equipment, and two university campuses are planned for establishment in Naifaru. Further projects include the construction of an Islamic Centre, the development of a FIFA-standard football stadium and the creation of a multi-sport complex.

Shiyam stated that many of these projects have already been awarded to contractors and are progressing at various stages. He stressed that residents expect timely completion of these initiatives so that Naifaru can emerge as a central hub of development in the northern region.

Emphasising the role of the Council, the Minister said councils must closely monitor development activities and extend full cooperation to the Government in implementing projects. He added that councils should not position themselves in opposition, but rather work collaboratively to ensure that development objectives are achieved efficiently.

Concluding his remarks, Shiyam urged the people of Naifaru to extend their full support to the PNC candidates in the Local Council Elections, expressing confidence that their election would help fulfil President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s development pledges for the island and ensure sustained progress.