Nigeria’s Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, has declared that the Southeast region has regained its rightful place in national development under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that the current government has made deliberate efforts to end what many in the region previously perceived as marginalisation.
Umahi made the remarks during an inspection tour of several ongoing federal road and infrastructure projects in Ebonyi State over the weekend, where he expressed satisfaction with the pace of work and reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to developing critical infrastructure across the Southeast.
According to the minister, the administration of President Tinubu has demonstrated inclusiveness by ensuring that the Southeast is adequately represented in federal appointments and infrastructure projects, thereby strengthening national unity and economic development.
Speaking to journalists during the inspection, Umahi said the region now feels more integrated into the national development agenda.
“The Southeast is now in its rightful place in Nigeria under President Bola Tinubu. The president has ended the marginalisation of the zone by carrying the people along in the scheme of things,” he said.
Major infrastructure projects underway
During the tour, the minister inspected several strategic federal projects designed to boost economic activities, improve connectivity, and stimulate development in the region.
Among the key projects visited was the Onueke first section of the ambitious 465-kilometre Tran-Sahara super highway project, which includes the construction of a major 25-span bridge measuring approximately 700 metres.
Umahi explained that the bridge and road project would significantly improve transportation networks, facilitate trade, and enhance mobility for communities across the Southeast and neighbouring regions.
He also inspected work on the Onueke–Afikpo highway, a critical route that connects several communities within Ebonyi State and supports the movement of agricultural produce and commercial goods.
Another major project reviewed was the Afikpo–Ndibe Beach Road, which is expected to improve access to riverine communities and open up new economic opportunities for residents in the area.
Ebonyi–Cross River bridge project
Umahi further examined progress on the proposed Ebonyi–Cross River Beach Bridge, a strategic infrastructure project designed to connect Ebonyi State with Cross River State.
According to him, the bridge will enhance inter-state connectivity and strengthen economic integration between the Southeast and South-South regions of the country.
The minister noted that once completed, the project would reduce travel time, facilitate trade and improve access to markets for local businesses and farmers.
He also visited the Amasiri–Okigwe highway project, another key federal road project expected to boost commerce and ease transportation challenges for motorists traveling between Ebonyi and neighbouring states.
Commitment to regional development
Umahi stressed that the ongoing projects form part of a broader infrastructure development strategy by the Federal Government aimed at modernising Nigeria’s road network and ensuring balanced development across all regions.
He commended contractors handling the projects for the level of work done so far while urging them to maintain high standards and adhere strictly to project timelines.
According to him, infrastructure development remains a cornerstone of the Tinubu administration’s economic agenda, as improved roads and bridges are essential for trade, agriculture, and industrial growth.
The minister also reiterated that the Federal Government would continue to invest heavily in transportation infrastructure to unlock economic potential and create new opportunities for Nigerians.
Reassurance to residents
Umahi used the opportunity to reassure residents of the Southeast that the Federal Government remains committed to addressing their developmental needs and strengthening their participation in national progress.
He emphasised that the administration of President Tinubu recognises the importance of the region in Nigeria’s economic and political landscape and will continue to support initiatives that promote growth and integration.
The minister added that with the ongoing projects nearing completion stages in various phases, communities across the Southeast would soon begin to experience the benefits of improved infrastructure and enhanced connectivity.
