The Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, has declared that the South-East geopolitical zone is poised to deliver 90 per cent support for President Bola Tinubu in the February 20, 2027, presidential election.
Umahi made the statement on Saturday while inspecting projects along the Alaoji axis of the Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway, stressing that the region must take strategic political decisions.
He commended President Tinubu for his legacy projects in the South-East and warned that failing to back him could undermine the region’s progress.
“All the marginalisation we once complained about has been addressed by the president. Unless we are not truthful to ourselves, there is no more marginalisation in the South-East,” Umahi said.
Highlighting the significance of federal appointments and projects, the minister added, “Giving the Ministry of Works to the South-East is no small feat, because we have never had it before. The ongoing work along the Port Harcourt–Enugu corridor reflects the president’s good intentions and commitment. This is the time for payback.”
Umahi recalled that during his tenure as Deputy Governor and Governor, no federal road projects were allocated to Enugu State.
“Today, we boast of numerous projects worth trillions of naira across the South-East, comparable to other regions. The largest legacy projects of the president are right here. We also have key appointments, including service chiefs, benefiting our region,” he said, urging citizens to support Tinubu and set aside sentiment or non-strategic considerations.
He assured contractors handling the expressway of prompt release of funds to ensure timely completion ahead of the presidential tour of the South-East and South-South in May.
Umahi also praised Arab Contractors for their dedication to the project despite funding constraints, noting that the government inherited 2,068 ongoing projects totaling 19 trillion naira when President Tinubu assumed office.
He explained, “Out of the 8.3 billion naira allocated in Sukuk, 2 billion remains claimable. As directed by the president, 30 percent of the 2025 budget will be paid, with the remaining 70 percent migrated to 2026 starting in April. The work must continue, and Arab Contractors have done an exceptional job.”
Regarding the Port Harcourt section of the expressway, Umahi said the second carriageway has had all major works completed, with only the combined and wearing course remaining.
He detailed a redesigned service lane with 20 cm lumps, sand, stone base, cement-treated stone base, and a final 20 cm concrete layer. The section is designed to last 50 years.
The minister encouraged public engagement and transparency, adding, “Criticise us and praise us; nothing goes wrong. We remain committed to ensuring progress. All projects have been submitted to the ICPC for evaluation.”
Umahi also visited the Port Harcourt axis being executed by an indigenous contractor. Present during the inspection were the Senior Special Assistant to the President on the South-East, Barr. Chioma Nwaeze, the Project Manager for Arab Contractors, Mr. Mah Moud, and aides to the minister.
