In a resounding endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, has praised the President for his unparalleled commitment to infrastructure development in Nigeria’s Southeast region. Speaking to journalists on Sunday, September 15, 2025, at Nine Mile Corner in Enugu State, Umahi highlighted the transformative impact of ongoing road projects and other infrastructural advancements in the region. He emphasized that the Southeast now has “every reason to stand with the President” due to the significant attention and resources being channeled toward its development. The Minister’s remarks came during an inspection of the dual carriageway project connecting Nassarawa, Makurdi, and Nine Mile, a key infrastructure initiative aimed at improving connectivity and fostering economic growth in the region.
A New Era of Infrastructure Development in the Southeast
Senator Umahi’s statements reflect a broader narrative of progress and optimism for the Southeast, a region that has historically faced challenges related to infrastructure deficits. The Minister underscored that the Tinubu administration has prioritized the region, with numerous road projects and other developmental initiatives serving as tangible evidence of this focus. “President Tinubu has remembered the Southeast very well, and we have no reason to complain,” Umahi declared, urging the people of the region to recognize and support the administration’s efforts.
The dual carriageway project at Nine Mile Corner, which Umahi inspected, is a flagship initiative under the Tinubu administration’s infrastructure agenda. This project is part of a broader network of road rehabilitation and construction efforts aimed at enhancing connectivity between key economic hubs in the Southeast and neighboring regions. The Nassarawa-Makurdi-Nine Mile dual carriageway is expected to facilitate smoother transportation of goods and services, reduce travel times, and stimulate economic activities in Enugu, Benue, and surrounding states. By improving road infrastructure, the administration aims to address longstanding challenges such as poor road conditions, traffic congestion, and limited access to markets, which have hindered economic growth in the region.
Addressing Historical Narratives and Misconceptions
Umahi’s comments also sought to address what he described as misconceptions about the Southeast’s treatment under successive administrations. He urged residents to move beyond sentiments and embrace the realities of the current government’s commitment to the region. “We need to be wise and engage based on realities, not sentiment,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of aligning with the federal government’s vision for national development. The Minister’s call for unity and collaboration reflects a desire to shift the narrative surrounding the Southeast, which has often been portrayed as marginalized in Nigeria’s political and developmental landscape.
For years, the Southeast has grappled with perceptions of neglect, with many residents expressing frustration over inadequate infrastructure, limited federal presence, and disparities in resource allocation. However, Umahi’s remarks suggest that the Tinubu administration is actively working to reverse these trends. By highlighting the numerous road projects underway, the Minister aimed to dispel notions of marginalization and foster a sense of inclusion among Southeast residents. “We will change the narrative in the Southeast, educate our people, and take them straight to the center, where Mr. President has already started taking us,” Umahi asserted, signaling a new chapter of engagement and partnership between the region and the federal government.
The Broader Context of Infrastructure Development
The Southeast’s infrastructure renaissance under President Tinubu is part of a broader national agenda to modernize Nigeria’s transportation and connectivity networks. Since assuming office, the Tinubu administration has prioritized infrastructure as a cornerstone of its economic development strategy. Roads, bridges, railways, and other critical infrastructure projects have received significant funding and attention, with the goal of driving economic growth, improving living standards, and fostering national integration.
In the Southeast, this agenda is manifesting in the form of multiple road projects, including the rehabilitation of major highways, the construction of new roads, and the upgrading of existing infrastructure. The Nassarawa-Makurdi-Nine Mile dual carriageway is just one of many initiatives aimed at transforming the region’s transportation landscape. Other notable projects include the rehabilitation of the Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway, the reconstruction of the Onitsha-Owerri Road, and the ongoing work on the Second Niger Bridge, which is expected to significantly enhance connectivity between the Southeast and other parts of the country.
These projects are not only improving physical infrastructure but also creating jobs, stimulating local economies, and fostering a sense of optimism among residents. The construction of modern roads and bridges is expected to attract investment, boost trade, and facilitate the movement of goods and services, thereby positioning the Southeast as a hub for economic activity in Nigeria.
Economic and Social Impacts of Improved Infrastructure
The ongoing infrastructure projects in the Southeast are poised to have far-reaching economic and social impacts. Improved road networks will reduce transportation costs for businesses, making it easier for farmers, traders, and manufacturers to access markets. This, in turn, is expected to boost agricultural productivity, enhance industrial output, and create new opportunities for entrepreneurship in the region. Additionally, better roads will improve access to essential services such as healthcare and education, particularly in rural areas where infrastructure deficits have historically limited opportunities.
The social implications of these projects are equally significant. By improving connectivity between urban and rural areas, the Tinubu administration is fostering greater social cohesion and integration within the Southeast. Residents will have easier access to neighboring states, facilitating family connections, cultural exchanges, and regional collaboration. Moreover, the visible progress in infrastructure development is likely to boost public confidence in the government and strengthen trust between the Southeast and the federal administration.
Umahi’s Vision for the Southeast
As the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi has been at the forefront of Nigeria’s infrastructure transformation. A former governor of Ebonyi State, Umahi brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the Southeast’s developmental needs to his role. His tenure as governor was marked by significant strides in infrastructure development, including the construction of roads, bridges, and public buildings in Ebonyi State. This track record has positioned him as a key figure in driving the Tinubu administration’s infrastructure agenda in the Southeast.
During his inspection of the Nassarawa-Makurdi-Nine Mile dual carriageway, Umahi expressed optimism about the future of the Southeast under President Tinubu’s leadership. He emphasized the importance of educating residents about the government’s efforts and encouraging them to take ownership of the development process. “We will educate our people and take them straight to the center,” he said, underscoring his commitment to fostering a sense of partnership between the Southeast and the federal government.
Umahi’s vision for the Southeast goes beyond physical infrastructure. He envisions a region that is fully integrated into Nigeria’s economic and political mainstream, with its residents actively participating in and benefiting from national development initiatives. By advocating for a shift in mindset—from one of complaint to one of collaboration—Umahi is laying the groundwork for a more prosperous and inclusive Southeast.
Challenges and Opportunities
While the Tinubu administration’s focus on infrastructure development in the Southeast is commendable, it is not without challenges. The high cost of construction, coupled with Nigeria’s economic constraints, poses a significant hurdle to the timely completion of projects. Inflation, rising material costs, and logistical challenges could delay progress or increase the financial burden on the government. Additionally, issues such as insecurity and vandalism of infrastructure projects have been a concern in parts of the Southeast, requiring robust security measures to protect workers and equipment.
Despite these challenges, the opportunities presented by the administration’s infrastructure agenda are immense. The Southeast is a region with significant economic potential, thanks to its vibrant commercial centers, agricultural productivity, and entrepreneurial spirit. By addressing longstanding infrastructure deficits, the government is unlocking this potential and creating a foundation for sustainable growth. The completion of projects like the Nassarawa-Makurdi-Nine Mile dual carriageway will not only improve connectivity but also serve as a catalyst for broader economic transformation in the region.
The Role of Public Support and Collaboration
Umahi’s call for the Southeast to “stand with the President” underscores the importance of public support in achieving the administration’s infrastructure goals. The success of these projects depends not only on government funding and expertise but also on the cooperation of local communities, traditional leaders, and other stakeholders. By fostering a sense of ownership among residents, the government can ensure that infrastructure projects are protected, maintained, and utilized effectively.
The Minister’s emphasis on “engaging based on realities, not sentiment” also highlights the need for constructive dialogue between the government and the people of the Southeast. This dialogue can help address concerns, clarify misconceptions, and build trust, paving the way for smoother project implementation. Furthermore, collaboration with private sector partners, civil society organizations, and international development agencies can provide additional resources and expertise to support the region’s infrastructure development.
Looking Ahead: A Brighter Future for the Southeast
As the Tinubu administration continues to invest in the Southeast’s infrastructure, the region is poised for a brighter future. The completion of key projects like the Nassarawa-Makurdi-Nine Mile dual carriageway, alongside other road and bridge initiatives, will transform the region’s transportation landscape and drive economic growth. These developments are also likely to strengthen the Southeast’s position within Nigeria’s federation, fostering a sense of inclusion and shared prosperity.
Senator Umahi’s remarks reflect a broader vision of progress, unity, and collaboration. By highlighting the Tinubu administration’s commitment to the Southeast, he is not only acknowledging the region’s importance but also rallying its residents to embrace the opportunities that lie ahead. As the government continues to deliver on its promises, the Southeast has the chance to redefine its narrative—from one of neglect to one of progress and potential.
In conclusion, the ongoing infrastructure projects in the Southeast, as championed by President Tinubu and articulated by Senator Umahi, represent a significant step toward addressing the region’s developmental challenges. The Nassarawa-Makurdi-Nine Mile dual carriageway is just one example of the transformative initiatives underway, with the potential to reshape the region’s economic and social landscape. By fostering collaboration, dispelling misconceptions, and rallying public support, the Tinubu administration is laying the foundation for a more prosperous and connected Southeast, ensuring that the region takes its rightful place at the center of Nigeria’s development agenda.
