Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has called for the retention of Senator David Umahi as the Minister for Works following his unwavering commitment to advancing the interests of the Southeast.
The Igbo Apex group disclosed this in a statement signed and made available to Journalists by its Secretary General Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro on Sunday when extending heartfelt gratitude to President Tinubu’s administration for the invaluable appointments of Senator Umahi.
He also urged the president to allocate more senatorial positions to the South Easterners, To efficiently transition Nigeria’s economy from a state of overreliance on consumption to a vibrant production-focused model.
According to Isiguzoro, it is imperative that President Tinubu injects Igbo ingenuity into his administration by empowering competent professionals through enhanced representation in sensitive ministries, noting that such strategic appointments will undoubtedly alter the narrative fueled by detractors and catalyze favourable outcomes, thus restoring the confidence of Nigerians and quelling the discontent that occasionally surfaces in various regions.
The statement reads “The apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, expresses its firm and unequivocal stance regarding the recent performances of key ministers within President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, particularly in light of the anticipated cabinet reshuffle scheduled for October 1, 2024.
“As Nigerians and, indeed, the Ndigbo people await tangible outcomes from the bilateral agreements signed between the Nigerian and Chinese governments during President Tinubu’s momentous visit to China, we harbor substantial optimism regarding the potential for economic revival these agreements promise. These pacts are not merely diplomatic formalities; they embody robust and proactive measures designed to reinvigorate Nigeria’s faltering economy. We recognize these agreements as audacious commitments that, if executed in good faith and with the requisite diligence, will etch President Tinubu’s legacy in the annals of our national history, reassuring Nigerians of his dedication to alleviating economic hardships and curbing inflation.
“We ardently appeal for their retention in their respective portfolios. Senator Umahi has exemplified exceptional professionalism and an unwavering commitment to advancing the interests of the Southeast. His adept facilitation of a productive partnership with the Federal Government has been instrumental in mitigating the challenges faced during the recent August nationwide hunger protests. The infrastructural advancements and ongoing road projects in the Southeast stand as a testament to this fruitful collaboration”.
”A focal point of our interest lies within one of the seven pivotal agreements, which emphasizes infrastructural development. With the unwavering support from China, we firmly believe in the “Renewed Hope Infrastructure Revolution,” spearheaded by Senator Dave Umahi as Minister of Works. His esteemed stewardship is poised to transcend expectations and is anticipated to yield transformational advancements in the sector. The Nigerian populace can expect a renaissance in road networks characterized by durability, expected to last for four decades—a direct testament to Umahi’s commitment and expertise.
“Furthermore, Barr Nyesom Wike, the esteemed Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has demonstrated remarkable ingenuity and innovation in his approach to governance, fostering significant developments in Abuja. These accomplishments affirm our confidence in their leadership capabilities. Ohanaeze Ndigbo proudly passes a Vote of Confidence on both leaders, recognizing them as indispensable pillars supporting President Tinubu’s administration over the past 14 months.
“In light of the abovementioned developments, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, Secretary General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, emphasizes the pressing need for President Tinubu to reward the Southeast with additional ministerial slots. The region boasts an array of capable and proficient Igbos, just like the Minister of Works, Senator Umahi, who can significantly contribute to the realization of the President’s economic aspirations and transformative policies.
In conclusion, Ohanaeze Ndigbo calls upon President Tinubu to consider the retention and elevation of dedicated leaders from the Southeast as a strategic move towards reinforcing national unity, fostering economic resilience, and realizing a truly renewed hope for all Nigerians”.
Credit: Nigerian Tribune except headline