The Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has thrown its weight behind the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, commending his dedication to the advancement of the Southeast. The apex Igbo socio-cultural organization firmly believes that Umahi’s impressive performance as a minister signals the Southeast’s commitment to backing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general election.
This significant declaration came in a statement released over the weekend, co-signed by Ohanaeze’s Deputy President, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, and National Spokesperson, Chief Thompson Ohio. The group also formally recognized the former Ebonyi State Governor, David Umahi, as the Igbo National Political Leader.
Ohanaeze’s statement emphasized a resolute stance, reflecting the region’s historical legacy and unwavering drive for progress. They declared the Southeast’s unequivocal support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a position they say aligns perfectly with the vision and leadership of the newly appointed Igbo National Political Leader, Senator Dave Umahi.
The organization revealed a thorough, decade-long examination of various political figures’ contributions to the Southeast’s economic growth, infrastructure development, and national political relevance. Their findings, they assert, unequivocally point to Senator Dave Umahi’s leadership as truly exceptional, particularly when compared to others like Mr. Peter Obi and Governor Hope Uzodinma.
Senator Umahi’s remarkable journey, from his tenure as Ebonyi State Governor (2015-2023) to his role as former Chairman of the Southeast Governors’ Forum and now as Minister of Works, showcases an extraordinary track record of transformative governance. Under his stewardship, Ebonyi State transitioned from being one of Nigeria’s least developed regions into a hub of modern infrastructure and impressive human capital development. The state not only improved its economic standing but also emerged as a vital agricultural and food production center for both the Southeast and the entire nation.
While acknowledging the contributions of other prominent Igbo leaders, including Mr. Obi’s time as Anambra Governor and Senator Uzodinma’s leadership in Imo State, Ohanaeze stressed that Senator Umahi’s impact on governance is simply unparalleled. As Chairman of the Southeast Governors’ Forum, he masterfully negotiated critical upgrades with the Federal Government. This included the enhancement of the Francis Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu, which now operates with full international status and cutting-edge facilities. He also championed the establishment of a second international airport in Abakaliki, significantly boosting the region’s connectivity.
Furthermore, Senator Umahi played a pivotal role in establishing the Southeast’s first regional security outfit, directly addressing the persistent insecurity plaguing communities. His strategic move in guiding the Southeast political leadership from opposition parties into the mainstream All Progressives Congress (APC) is hailed as one of the most astute political decisions of the current decade.
After 21 months of impactful service as Minister of Works, the ongoing revolutionary infrastructural projects across the Southeast have visibly reshaped the economic landscape, instilling renewed hope and vision within the Igbo Nation. These tangible federal initiatives promise to bolster the region’s economic viability and security for the next three decades, all meticulously overseen by Senator Umahi and fully endorsed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The profound effects of strong leadership under President Tinubu’s administration have fundamentally altered the political dynamics in the Southeast. In light of this, Ohanaeze views it as increasingly impractical for any opposition coalition of politicians to mislead the populace into opposing the current administration.
As President Tinubu approaches his two-year milestone in office on May 29, 2027, Ohanaeze Ndigbo unequivocally assures that Senator Dave Umahi is the singular, trusted political leader of the Southeast. He is, they state, empowered with the mandate to amplify the collective voice of the Igbo people in support of President Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027.
At this crucial juncture in history, Ohanaeze reaffirms its unwavering commitment to unity, progress, and the resolute advocacy for the interests of the Igbo people within the broader national conversation. The path forward, they assert, is one of collaboration and mutual respect, with Ohanaeze Ndigbo poised to champion the ideals that will propel the region into a future defined by prosperity and opportunity.
