By Isaac Mission
Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, has urged people of the South-East to support the administration of President Bola Tinubu, saying the Federal Government has demonstrated genuine commitment to the development of the region.
Umahi made the remarks in a statement circulated on social media, where he highlighted ongoing infrastructure projects and efforts by the Tinubu administration to improve connectivity across the South-East.
The minister appealed to residents of the region to look beyond political sentiments and recognise what he described as the administration’s intention to address some of the South-East’s longstanding infrastructure challenges.
According to Umahi, the region is receiving increased attention under the current administration, particularly in the area of road construction and rehabilitation.
He said his presence in the Federal Executive Council had also helped strengthen the region’s ability to attract federal infrastructure projects.
Umahi maintained that the projects being executed across the South-East were part of efforts to correct what he described as historical imbalances in infrastructure development.
He said the Federal Government’s commitment should be assessed based on projects being delivered rather than political disagreements surrounding the administration.
The minister also used biblical references to encourage South-East residents to take advantage of opportunities created by government projects and contribute to the development of the region.
He cited the biblical account of Moses, asking what people have in their hands that can be used to make a difference.
Umahi further pointed to ongoing work on the Enugu–Onitsha road as evidence of the government’s infrastructure drive in the region.
He noted that motorists previously spent several hours covering sections of the route that could ordinarily be completed within 30 to 45 minutes. According to him, more than half of the road is now under construction from both ends.
The minister said improvements to major transport corridors would ultimately make the movement of people and goods easier while supporting economic activities across the region.
He urged residents of the South-East to recognise the infrastructure interventions taking place and remain open to the Federal Government’s development plans.
Umahi’s comments come as the Tinubu administration continues to emphasise road construction and other infrastructure projects as key components of its strategy to improve transportation and strengthen economic connections across Nigeria.