…demands more ministerial slots for South-East
The apex lgbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, on Sunday passed a vote of confidence on the Minister of Works, David Umahi, and his Federal Capital Territory (FCT) counterpart, Nyesom Wike.
The vote of confidence, which comes ahead of President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet reshuffle, was passed after deliberate and resolute findings regarding the performances of key ministers within the President’s administration, Ohanaeze said in a statement issued on Sunday by its factional Secretary-General, Okechukwu lsiguzoro.
There have been reports that the President has concluded plans to reshuffle his cabinet on or before 1st October.
The apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation said it was imperative to judiciously assess and spotlight the commendable contributions made by these individuals, while also advocating for bolstered representation from the South-East region.
The statement said that in recent weeks, the palpable enthusiasm among Nigerians, particularly Ndigbo, has been notably invigorated by the bilateral agreements formalized between the governments of Nigeria and China during President Tinubu’s momentous diplomatic visit.
“We regard these agreements as bold, pragmatic measures that possess the potential to significantly enhance the welfare of our citizens and alleviate the protracted economic hardships that have beleaguered our nation,” the statement said.
“These initiatives, if fully implemented, will bolster not only the economy but also President Tinubu’s standing in history as a transformative leader capable of enacting long-lasting developmental policies.
“Given the specific focus of one of the seven bilateral agreements—namely infrastructural development—we are particularly encouraged by the visionary leadership of Senator David Umahi, Minister of Works.
“Senator Umahi’s commitment to the ‘Renewed Hope Infrastructure Revolution’ is anticipated to spark a renaissance in infrastructural development across various sectors.
“By the year 2027, we firmly believe that the Nigerian populace will witness the fruits of these ambitious projects through a remarkable enhancement of our road networks, ensuring durability and reliability for decades to come.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo expresses its profound appreciation to President Tinubu for recognizing and appointing outstanding leaders such as Senator Umahi and Barrister Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
“In anticipation of the upcoming cabinet reshuffle, we urge the President to retain both ministers in their positions. Our deliberation has led us to conclude that Senator Umahi has consistently exhibited the highest levels of professionalism and dedication in executing his duties.
“Additionally, he has actively championed the interests of the Southeast region, fostering beneficial initiatives and partnerships with the Federal Government. We cannot overlook the significant role played by Senator Umahi in the recent abstinence of the Southeast during the Nationwide Hunger Protests that occurred from August 1 to August 10.
“This was a demonstration of unity and strategic engagement and a reflection of the ongoing commitment to the partnership established with the Federal Government. The infrastructural projects currently underway also exemplify how the Southeast stands to benefit from these harmonious collaborations. We are confident that the region will reciprocate this goodwill in due course.
“Turning our attention to Barrister Nyesom Wike, we acknowledge with great admiration his exceptional contributions in the FCT, marked by an array of innovative and transformational initiatives that resonate with the ingenuity characteristic of the Igbo spirit. His stewardship has brought about significant improvements that deserve recognition and further support.
“Thus, Ohanaeze Ndigbo unequivocally passes a Vote of Confidence in both Senator Umahi and Barrister Wike as vital pillars supporting President Tinubu’s administration over the past 14 months.
“Therefore, we earnestly appeal to President Tinubu to not only maintain their appointments but also to expand ministerial representation from the Southeast region,” it said.
