Tinubu’s Administration Inherited Minimal Infrastructure in Southeast – Minister Umahi Reveals

The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has disclosed that the Bola Tinubu-led administration met almost no ongoing federal infrastructure projects in Nigeria’s Southeast region when it assumed office.

Speaking during the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Summit held in Abuja, Umahi emphasized that strategic interventions have since commenced to close the longstanding infrastructure deficit in the zone.

Government Action on Southeast Roads

At the summit—where the federal government presented a two-year progress report on national infrastructure—Umahi explained that while there were hardly any active projects in the region at the time of handover, multiple major road developments have since been initiated.

“In the South-East, we inherited almost no project,” he stated. “But today, there are substantial works in progress. The Owerri–Onitsha expressway is currently under construction, alongside the Enugu–Onitsha and Enugu–Abakaliki roads.”

Umahi also mentioned the Second Niger Bridge, which connects Delta and Anambra States, confirming that the project continues to progress efficiently.

Infrastructure Development as an Economic Strategy

The Works Minister commended President Tinubu for recognizing the crucial role that infrastructure plays in driving economic growth and national development.

“Mr. President, though we may face various challenges, I must sincerely commend you. You understand that the works sector is the backbone of a nation’s GDP growth. Every other sector thrives upon it,” Umahi remarked. “I am honored to work with you—you are a visionary leader.”

Positive Social Media Reactions

The former Governor of Ebonyi State also praised the level of public engagement and commendations observed on digital platforms regarding ongoing projects.

“I’m pleased with the feedback from Nigerians on social media. People are praising the administration for the quality and speed of infrastructure delivery,” he added.

Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway as a Game-Changer

Highlighting the government’s broader infrastructure agenda, Umahi described the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway as a transformative and investment-driven initiative. Spanning 750 kilometers, he said the project represents more than just a road—it is a critical economic corridor set to boost inter-state connectivity and drive private investment across the southern corridor.

High-Profile APC National Summit

The APC Summit, where Umahi made these remarks, was graced by prominent political figures including President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House Tajudeen Abbas, NSA Nuhu Ribadu, APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, and various APC state governors and stakeholders.