By Peter David
The apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, has described the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, as the face of a new political awakening in the Southeast.
The group said since his appointment by President Bola Tinubu, he has redefined the place of Ndigbo in Nigeria’s power equation.
The Igbo apex group said Umahi’s emergence as the first Nigerian of Igbo extraction to serve as Minister of Works since the ministry was established in 1951 has become a symbol of political inclusion and renewed confidence that competence and merit can shape national appointments.
In a statement issued to commemorate the minister’s 63rd birthday, Ohanaeze argued that the appointment marks a significant departure from what it described as decades of limited Igbo representation in one of the country’s most strategic ministries.
It said the development has fuelled fresh political consciousness across the Southeast and reinforced the belief that Ndigbo have a greater role to play in shaping Nigeria’s future.
The statement, jointly signed by the Deputy President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, and the Deputy Secretary-General, Prof. Chibuikeya Achoakawa, commended President Tinubu for what it described as a historic decision that recognised the competence, experience and capacity of Ndigbo to occupy strategic positions in national governance.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu deserves commendation for appointing Senator David Umahi as the first person of Igbo extraction to serve as Minister of Works since the establishment of the ministry in 1951,” the organisation said.
According to Ohanaeze, “This historic appointment represents a significant milestone in Nigeria’s political history and a recognition of the capacity, competence and experience of Ndigbo in national development.”
The organisation said beyond the symbolism of the appointment, Umahi has distinguished himself through his stewardship of the Federal Ministry of Works, particularly in driving the Federal Government’s infrastructure agenda.
It noted that the minister’s advocacy for the increased use of concrete technology in road construction has reshaped national discussions on durability, sustainability and value for money in public infrastructure.
Ohanaeze also commended Umahi’s frequent inspection of project sites and direct engagement with contractors and engineers, describing his field-driven leadership style as evidence of his commitment to quality service delivery and accountability.
The group further said ongoing federal road projects across the Southeast have begun addressing long-standing infrastructure deficits and restoring confidence in the Federal Government’s commitment to balanced national development.
“The rehabilitation and construction of critical roads across the Southeast symbolise a new chapter in the relationship between the Federal Government and the people of the region, providing opportunities for economic growth, improved connectivity and regional integration,” the statement said.
Describing Umahi as “a professor in practice” in infrastructure development, Ohanaeze said his leadership reflects discipline, technical competence and dedication to national service.
While congratulating the minister on his 63rd birthday, the organisation urged him to remain focused on his responsibilities, stressing that “history will ultimately judge public officers by the impact of their service and the legacy they leave behind.”
Ohanaeze added that the political aspirations of Ndigbo remain rooted in development, inclusion and national progress, insisting that sustainable infrastructure and good governance should remain at the centre of Nigeria’s development agenda.
