From Nabob Ogbonna, Abakiliki
The Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi yesterday said that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is reintegrating the people of Southeast after 55 years the region suffered marginalization in federal projects and appointments as a result of the Nigeria-Biafra war.
Umahi further cited visibility of federal presence in infrastructures and appointments across the five states of the region under President Tinubu’s government.
He made this known on Sunday in Abakiliki, the Ebonyi State Capital, during the 2025 Eid-Kabir celebration with Muslim communities in the state.
His words: “We lost political ground in the past (after the war), but this government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is bringing us back. It’s not yet perfect, but we are no longer left behind. We must acknowledge that and support the President.
“Don’t forget that before now, many Southeast states had no federal projects and appointments, but today, the federal presence is visible across the region and that is true national reintegration of Ndigbo under President Tinubu’s government,”he said.
The Minister who before now have served as governor of Ebonyi, urged the people of the Southeast to reject divisive narratives but to focus on constructive engagement with the federal government to achieve more.
“The Southeast must count one before counting two. We need reintegration, not isolation. President Tinubu has started this process—we must not waste the opportunity,
“And if you betray such a man, you betray Nigerians. I serve both God and the President with the fear of God,”he stated.
Admonishing the Muslim communities, the minister for Works stressed that the foundation of all religions is love, hence, urged Nigerians to focus on common values than differences.
Although, he insisted that the relationship between faiths in Nigeria is presently much better as it were in the past.
“It surprised many Christians when the President led a Nigerian delegation to the Pope’s inauguration.
“That was very unique and historic and it is a symbol of genuine respect. We all serve one God in different ways. Both Muslims and Christians preach love and the fear of God,”he added.
Addressing concerns over the initial Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket, Umahi said religious balance in federal appointments is a significant indicator of inclusiveness in present administration.
“Christians currently hold about 62% of appointments under President Tinubu, while Muslims hold about 38%. That shows national cohesion in practice,”he explained.
Salient Times observed that the minister shared 50 kg bag of rice, food and money to over 1000 Muslim brothers and sisters who attended this year’s Eid Kabir celebration organized by him.
