From CHARLES ONYEKWERE, Enugu
Apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has hailed President Bola Tinubu for appointing the Minister of Works, Engr David Umahi saying with six of his type, Nigeria would become comparable to India, Singapore, Japan and South Africa.
Ohanaeze said the first phase of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, a monumental initiative that ensures not only connectivity, but also heralds a new era of infrastructural development in Nigeria, marks the second anniversary of President Tinubu’s administration.
The pan-Igbo group stated that Umahi’s dedicated service has rendered him a transformative figure emblematic of Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’, adding that his prompt delivery of vital projects affirms a commitment to effective governance and transformative leadership.
In a statement issued yesterday by the Deputy President-General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, Ohanaeze noted that these projects are not merely ceremonial accomplishments, they are the bedrock for sustained economic growth and infrastructural resilience in our nation.
According to the statement, we find it necessary to confront an uncomfortable truth which must be articulated without fear or favor, if there are five or six leaders of Umahi’s caliber embedded within President Tinubu’s cabinet during his first two years in office, particularly in cornerstone sectors such as Power, Economy, Agriculture, Health, Security, and Petroleum Resources, Nigeria would be positioning itself as a rival to emerging economies like India, Singapore, Morocco, South Africa, Japan, and Turkey.
The statement reads “A candid reflection on Senator Umahi’s performance reveals the urgency and necessity for leadership that harnesses the spirit of ingenuity and the unyielding resolve that characterise the Igbo ethos.
“Such qualities have unfortunately been glaringly absent from the current Federal Executive Council, producing governance that often fails to meet the pressing needs of our populace.
“This message is, thus, a clarion call for President Tinubu to engage in meaningful dialogue with Ndigbo, paving the way to build a government that is not only results-oriented, but also one that is based on competence and integrity. The achievements associated with Senator Umahi embody what can be accomplished when leadership aligns with the unyielding aspirations of the people.
“Let us be clear: Umahi’s initiatives have not only provided the president with tangible evidence of progress, but also illustrate the critical need to bolster his cabinet with capable individuals who can replicate such success. If President Tinubu were to identify and appoint six competent leaders akin to Umahi in the vital sectors mentioned, he could potentially neutralise the growing political unrest and dissent that loom over his administration.
“As we approach the significant date of June 12—Democracy Day—it offers a pivotal opportunity for Tinubu to rejuvenate his cabinet with individuals whose qualifications transcend political affiliations.
“Furthermore, by fostering a reconciliatory spirit with the Igbo demographic through tangible policies and increased allocation for infrastructural initiatives, he will discover in the Igbo community, his staunchest and most reliable allies.
“This demographic’s unique presence across the 774 local government areas positions them as a formidable force for unity and progress.
“We assert that the path forward for Nigeria is illuminated by the principles of inclusive governance and the recognition of the diverse strengths embedded within our society.
“As we collectively strive for national renewal, it is incumbent upon leaders to embrace collaboration and effective governance that resonates with the aspirations of all Nigerians. The opportunity for transformative change is at hand and it is imperative that we seize it together.”
