Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, has declared that his loyalty lies first with God and next with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing the president’s trust in him as rare and deeply valuable.
Umahi made the statement in Abakaliki, the Ebonyi State capital, while speaking with journalists on President Tinubu’s recent public commendation of his performance, especially on major road and infrastructure projects across Nigeria.
The former governor of Ebonyi State described the president’s praise as more valuable than “one trillion dollars,” saying it gave him assurance that his efforts were recognised and his prayers were being answered.
“I have told the president even publicly that my loyalty is to God first and then him,” Umahi said. “When a man gives you the type of trust Tinubu has given me, you will be of the devil to betray him.”
The minister said he believes that any individual who enjoys the president’s confidence and still turns around to betray him will face divine punishment.
He gave an example of the kind of trust the president has placed in him, citing a major road project.
“Have you seen where a man presided over the procurement of a project worth N1.6 trillion and his boss did not call him to ask how he went about it?” he said, referring to one of the large-scale federal highway projects under his ministry.
According to Umahi, such trust is not common in Nigerian politics, where leaders often interfere with or micromanage government projects.
“I pray every day that if I place myself, my family, or friends above God, Tinubu, and Nigerians, let Him not answer me,” Umahi said, reaffirming his personal commitment to serving faithfully.
He also pledged to continue praying for the president and all those who support his administration and efforts to move the country forward.
The minister dedicated the president’s commendation to Nigerians who have been praying for his success in office, especially those who want to see real development and progress in infrastructure.
“This means that contractors would be on their toes to complete about 30 mega projects which the president will inaugurate by December 20,” Umahi added.
He explained that the ongoing works include critical infrastructure across all six geo-political zones of the country and that he personally oversees construction and inspections to ensure standards are met.
Umahi’s ministry is currently supervising some of the largest road projects in Nigeria’s history, including the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, major dual carriageways, and strategic bridges aimed at boosting the economy and reducing travel time.
Observers note that his loyalty statement is both a show of political alignment and a reflection of the growing influence President Tinubu has over key federal appointees.
Since assuming office in 2023, President Tinubu has focused on building a team of trusted individuals to deliver on his Renewed Hope Agenda. Umahi, as one of the more visible ministers in Tinubu’s cabinet, has drawn attention for his hands-on approach and regular inspection visits to project sites.
While some critics say such public declarations of loyalty should be tempered by constitutional responsibilities, Umahi maintains that his sense of duty to the president is rooted in shared goals and a commitment to serve the Nigerian people effectively.
With December fast approaching, the minister said Nigerians can expect the delivery of key federal roads and bridges before the end of the year, promising that Tinubu will personally commission many of them.
