Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, has launched a scathing attack on those criticising the reforms of President Bola Tinubu, calling them “enemies of Nigeria” driven by jealousy and envy.
Umahi’s remarks were made on Friday during an investigative public hearing by the Senate Committee on Works in Abuja.
The Minister strongly defended President Tinubu’s ongoing reforms, stressing that they were aimed at repositioning the Nigerian economy for long-term growth.
“The people criticizing the President are doing so out of jealousy,” Umahi said. “They are not helping the country. They are enemies of Nigeria.”
Umahi assured Nigerians that the reforms introduced by President Tinubu would eventually bear fruit and transform the nation’s economy in the near future.
Umahi: Critics Fail to See the Bigger Picture
In his statement, Umahi highlighted the commitment of President Tinubu to economic improvement, saying that the reform plans were not only understood but also supported by those heading various sectors of the economy.
He emphasized that key figures in government were working together to implement the President’s vision, a vision he has nurtured for years.
“Mr. President had this dream of making Nigeria better for the past 25 years as a governor,” Umahi said. “Now, God has given him the opportunity to serve the country and actualize his dream. He has no choice but to perform.”
Umahi also praised the President for his rare decision to continue with several projects initiated by his predecessor, something not common in Nigerian politics.
“It’s very rare for a president to agree to continue the whole project of his predecessor,” Umahi noted. “But President Tinubu has done so because he believes in completing projects for the benefit of the people.”
Defense of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road Project
Umahi also addressed the controversy surrounding the Lagos-Calabar coastal road project, which has attracted some criticism. He described the criticisms as “born out of envy and jealousy,” dismissing them as unhelpful.
The coastal road project, a key initiative aimed at improving infrastructure across the country, has faced challenges, but Umahi believes it is essential for Nigeria’s economic growth.
“When people stop this suspicion character and digest the coastal road project very well,” Umahi explained, “they will see that it is a catalyst for the growth of every state in this country.”
Umahi strongly believes that the project will unlock economic opportunities for communities along the coastal route and stimulate growth in multiple sectors.
The Minister added that the project would not only provide better connectivity but also contribute to the country’s overall development. He urged Nigerians to understand the long-term benefits of the project instead of succumbing to negative narratives.
Clarifying the Road Diversion Controversy
Umahi also clarified a specific issue that has caused confusion and criticism: the diversion of the Lagos-Calabar road project after work had reached 16 kilometers. The diversion was necessary due to an African communication cable that runs under the ocean, which was in the path of the project.
He explained that the diversion occurred to avoid any potential issues related to the cable and to ensure that the project progressed smoothly without disruptions. According to Umahi, the project was then reconnected at kilometer 26, which he said was a precaution to prevent past experiences where similar projects faced setbacks due to such infrastructure conflicts.
“The road was diverted at 16 kilometers because of the African communication cable that comes from the ocean,” Umahi said. “We had to ensure that we did not repeat the mistakes of the past. The road was reconnected at kilometer 26 to avoid further delays and challenges.”
A Call for Unity in Support of the Reforms
Umahi’s statements are part of a broader push to gain public support for President Tinubu’s ambitious reform agenda. The Minister strongly believes that Nigerians need to work together, setting aside personal and political differences, to ensure the success of these reforms.
He urged Nigerians to put aside any suspicions or negativity about the government’s plans and focus on the larger goal of national progress.
“Let’s stop the suspicion and start focusing on the benefits of these projects,” Umahi said. “If we all come together, we will see that these reforms will not only help the economy but will create lasting opportunities for future generations.”
The Minister also expressed confidence that, despite the criticisms, President Tinubu’s reforms would eventually lead Nigeria toward greater prosperity. He emphasized that the current efforts should be viewed as long-term investments that will pay off for the nation.
Critics and Supporters: A Divided Landscape
As President Tinubu continues to push forward with his economic and infrastructural reforms, his administration has faced significant criticism from opposition figures and some sections of the public. Some believe that the pace of the reforms is too fast and that the impacts are not yet visible.
On the other hand, supporters like Umahi argue that the country cannot afford to delay necessary changes any longer, stressing that the reforms are crucial for Nigeria’s growth.
“There is no time to waste,” Umahi concluded. “President Tinubu is doing everything he can to move this country forward. Those who criticize him are only holding back progress.”
