Senator David Umahi, Nigeria’s Minister of Works, has categorically denied claims that federal road infrastructure projects are disproportionately concentrated in the South-East geopolitical zone. Speaking during an inspection of the Trans-Sahara Highway project, Umahi emphasized that all road interventions adhere to presidential directives and are driven by national developmental needs rather than regional preferences. The 1,500-kilometer Trans-Sahara Highway, spanning Afikpo (Ebonyi State) through Ador (Benue State), Nsukka (Enugu State), and Kogi State, terminates at the Owete Bridge linking to the Federal Capital Territory. Umahi directed contractors to accelerate work by commencing simultaneous operations on three sections, vowing to cross the Ador Bridge during his next inspection. "They want to gag me on social media when they say I cornered all the road projects to the South-East," Umahi stated. "But we have publications of all ongoing projects. The President is my boss. Where would he be while I supposedly corner all the projects to the South-East?"
Umahi defended the South-East’s infrastructure development, acknowledging the region’s historical underinvestment but rejecting accusations of preferential treatment. "Some people are dissatisfied that, for the first time, the South-East is receiving its fair share of national infrastructure," he said. The minister highlighted the administration’s hybrid financing model, where 30% of legacy projects are funded via Naira allocations, with 70% secured through foreign loans. He cited the $150 million Ebonyi State Ring Road project, funded during his governorship, as an example of strategic borrowing for productive outcomes. "When people lack a clear vision, they save money while critical needs persist," Umahi argued. "I do not believe in hoarding food when the people are hungry."
Addressing concerns about existing roads, Umahi denied claims of abandonment, stating the Trans-Sahara Highway project utilized and upgraded pre-existing routes. He also reiterated the government’s commitment to completing major projects, citing Nigeria’s $55 billion foreign exchange reserves as a sign of fiscal stability. "Citizens must support our economic reforms to ensure the completion of national capital developments," he urged. The minister’s remarks come amid debates over the First Niger Bridge’s expected reopening next week and calls to minimize property demolition during infrastructure expansion.
Umahi’s statements underscore the Tinubu administration’s emphasis on equitable infrastructure distribution, even as critics scrutinize funding mechanisms and regional disparities. His defense of borrowing for development aligns with broader economic strategies aimed at long-term growth, though challenges remain in balancing national priorities with localized needs. The minister’s focus on transparency and presidential oversight aims to counter allegations of mismanagement, even as the South-East’s infrastructure revival sparks both optimism and skepticism across the federation.