The apex Igbo sociocultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, makes an unequivocal declaration: the Southeast region will lend its steadfast support to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in alignment with the mandate of the newly appointed Igbo National Political Leader and Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi. This resolution emerges from an exhaustive and impartial evaluation of the political landscape over the last decade, during which the contributions of various political actors to the growth and development of the Southeast have been scrupulously analyzed.
In scrutinizing the advancements within our region, Ohanaeze Ndigbo has conducted a thorough comparative analysis of the performances of the current and past governors, ministers, members of the National Assembly, and ambassadors. The findings from this diligence underscore an irrefutable truth: Senator Dave Umahi’s tenure as the Governor of Ebonyi State from 2015 to 2023 stands as a paradigm of transformative leadership. Under his stewardship, Ebonyi State has remarkably ascended from one of the least developed states in Nigeria to a prominent figure among the top three states recognized for modern infrastructure development and human capital advancement.
While acknowledging the positive contributions made by other Igbo politicians, including Mr. Peter Obi and Governor Hope Uzodinma, it is imperative to highlight the exceptional achievements of Senator Umahi. As the former Chairman of the Southeast Governors’ Forum, he adeptly negotiated with the Federal Government to secure the enhancement of the Francis Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu, facilitating its transition to a fully operational international airport endowed with state-of-the-art facilities. Furthermore, Umahi spearheaded the establishment of a second international airport in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, and played a pivotal role in solidifying the Southeast’s position within the national political arena, demonstrating visionary leadership by aligning the region with the All Progressives Congress (APC)—a strategic maneuver hailed as one of the most astute political decisions in recent history.
Moreover, the transformative leadership of Senator Umahi was instrumental in orchestrating the first regional security outfit in the Southeast, addressing pressing security challenges with innovative solutions. During his 21 months of service as Minister of Works, Senator Umahi has further invigorated infrastructural development across the Southeast. The ongoing road construction projects, under his supervision and supported by President Tinubu, are not merely physical improvements, but a profound recalibration of the economic landscape of the Southeast, poised to foster growth and security for the next three decades.
As the Southeast reflects on the substantial benefits that have accrued from President Tinubu’s administration, it is evident that any attempts by opposition coalitions to sway the region’s allegiance will be met with resistance. The palpable impact of strong leadership and visible federal projects have not gone unnoticed; the Igbo nation is poised to continue its support for the Tinubu administration.
In anticipation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s two-year anniversary in office on May 29, 2027, Ohanaeze Ndigbo unequivocally asserts that Senator Dave Umahi is the singular and trusted leader designated to galvanize overwhelming support from the Southeast for President Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027. Through unity and decisive action, the Igbo people will stand resolute in their commitment to advance the interests of the Southeast within the broader national framework.
Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro
Deputy President General
Ohanaeze Ndigbo
Chief Thompson Ohia
National Spokesman
Ohanaeze Ndigbo
