Abuja, Nigeria — Senator Dave Umahi, the Minister of Works, has disclosed that all governors from the Southeast region are united in their support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership and his potential re-election in 2027. He further urged prominent figures, including former governor Peter Obi, to align with this collective endorsement.
During a recent interview for an upcoming State House documentary marking President Tinubu’s second year in office, Senator Umahi highlighted the transformative projects being implemented under the administration, particularly in the Southeast. He emphasized that these initiatives reflect the President’s commitment to equity and national development.
“The Igbo man is enterprising and blessed with God-given wisdom,” Umahi stated. “What Ndi Igbo seek is fairness—a Nigeria that treats every zone equally. That is what President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is doing.“
Federal Presence and Infrastructure Development in the Southeast
The Minister noted that under previous administrations, Ebonyi State and other parts of the Southeast lacked significant federal projects. However, this has changed under President Tinubu’s leadership. He cited several ongoing projects in the region, including:
– The Port Harcourt to Enugu Road
– The Enugu to Abakaliki Road
– The Enugu to Onitsha Road
– The Onitsha to Owerri Road
– The Second Niger Bridge, for which 30% of the total cost has already been paid by the federal government
“Today, nobody remembers the lack of federal presence in Ebonyi State anymore,” Umahi said. “At least four federal projects are ongoing in Ebonyi alone. The South East now has a Minister of Works for the first time, and we are seeing real progress.”
Call for Unity Among Southeast Leaders
Senator Umahi revealed plans for a summit aimed at bringing together all Southeast leaders to formally endorse President Tinubu for the 2027 elections. He stressed that this collective support would help ensure the completion of critical infrastructure projects while fostering national unity and the integration of Ndi Igbo into Nigeria’s broader development agenda.
“All the governors in the South East, regardless of party affiliation, are working with the President,” he said. “Leadership is not about self—it’s about the people. If someone else is already doing what you would have done for your people, support him.”
He extended a direct appeal to Peter Obi, urging the former governor to join hands with President Tinubu and participate in the planned summit. “I call on my brother, His Excellency Peter Obi, to join us and work with Mr. President. He must be part of this summit where we will collectively endorse President Tinubu for the 2027 election.”
Progress on National Infrastructure Projects
In addition to regional developments, Senator Umahi highlighted progress on major national projects such as the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway. He announced that a segment of this highway is nearing completion and will be open for tolling by December.
“God gave President Tinubu the vision for the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway seven years ago,” Umahi said. “Today, he is actualizing that vision. These projects testify to his unwavering commitment to national development and a better future for all Nigerians.”
He also referenced the Trans-Saharan Trade Route, a colonial-era concept being revived under President Tinubu’s administration to boost trade and connectivity across regions.
Community Impact and Future Outlook
The Minister praised the positive reception from host communities where infrastructure projects are underway. He specifically mentioned the recent flag-off of Sections 3 and 3B of a major road project covering 65 kilometers across Cross River and Akwa Ibom states.
“The excitement among host communities speaks volumes about the transformative impact of these projects,” he said.
Senator Umahi concluded by reiterating the Southeast’s satisfaction with President Tinubu’s leadership and expressed optimism about continued progress in both regional and national development.
“The South East is happy with the President,” he affirmed. “These initiatives are strengthening our unity and paving the way for a brighter future for all Nigerians.”
