Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, has stated that the Southeast region of Nigeria has no reason to feel sidelined under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, citing unprecedented federal attention to infrastructure in the zone.
Speaking to reporters during an inspection of the Nassarawa-Makurdi-Nine Mile dual carriageway project on Sunday, Umahi praised the scale and quality of the work being carried out.
He stressed that the Southeast is now seeing tangible development, particularly in road infrastructure.
“President Tinubu has remembered the Southeast very well, and we have no reason to complain,” Umahi said.
“It’s time to act with wisdom and focus on facts, not sentiments.”
He emphasized that President Tinubu’s commitment is evident in the $1 billion (₦15 trillion) road project spanning 264km (528km total when both lanes are considered), currently under construction by China Habo, a major Chinese engineering firm.
“I was expecting to find faults when I came here, but I saw excellent work instead. I commend China Habo for their efficiency and commitment,” Umahi remarked.
The project is being executed in five sections, with three sections in Benue State and the remaining two in Enugu State.
Umahi argued that previous administrations had failed to deliver on such major infrastructure in the region.
He insisted that the current government has provided the Southeast with real reasons to align politically with Tinubu.
“This project alone covers close to 200km on one side. Multiply that by two, and you understand the scale. We have been remembered, not with words, but with action,” he said.
Calling for unity and support, Umahi urged the Southeast to fully embrace the administration, adding that the region is now part of the national agenda.
“Those who were there before didn’t do these roads. But today, a leader has come who is making a difference. We must be wise and stop listening to noise-makers,” he said.
He concluded by expressing confidence in Tinubu’s capacity to complete the projects and deliver on his promises.
“He who started this good work is destined to finish it. We’re no longer at the margins — we’re at the center now.”
