- Umahi said the South-East presidency must wait until 2031, explaining that Tinubu’s administration represents all southern regions.
- He urged patience and unity, noting that President Bola Tinubu has demonstrated fairness through massive road and infrastructure projects in the South-East.
- The Minister highlighted key road constructions such as Enugu–Onitsha and Aba–Umuahia, describing them as proof of Tinubu’s inclusive leadership.
- Umahi assured that when the time comes, the South-East has capable leaders who can credibly contest for Nigeria’s presidency.
Minister of Works, David Umahi, has urged the South-East to be patient in its quest for Nigeria’s presidency, saying it is not yet the region’s turn to produce the country’s next leader.
ATTENTION: Click “HERE” to join our WhatsApp group and receive News updates directly on your WhatsApp!
In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja, Umahi explained that the principle of equity and fairness required President Bola Tinubu to complete his two terms before the South-East could lay claim to the position.
“No, it is not our time yet,” Umahi said. “Before the 2023 election, all 17 Southern governors agreed that the next president should come from the South. We all worked hard, but the mandate fell on President Tinubu. It would therefore be wrong for the South-East to demand it now.”
READ ALSO: Madagascar Military Coup: Soldiers Seize Power as Youth Protests Erupt Nationwide
He stressed that Tinubu’s eight-year tenure, which began in 2023, represents all regions of the South, and as such, must be respected for the sake of stability and unity.
“The eight years belong to all of us — the South and the North,” Umahi said. “When he completes his term in 2031, the South-East will have its chance to vie for the presidency.”
While acknowledging that the region had faced marginalisation in the past, Umahi said the Tinubu administration had demonstrated fairness through several infrastructure projects in the zone.
“The South-East might say they did not get many appointments, but being Minister of Works is like holding five major portfolios,” he noted.
He pointed to several key road projects including the Enugu–Onitsha expressway, Port Harcourt–Aba road, Aba–Umuahia road, and Umuahia–Lokpanta road as examples of the President’s inclusive approach to governance.
According to Umahi, Tinubu’s leadership reflects a spirit of unity and fairness that prioritises development across all parts of Nigeria. “President Bola Tinubu does not discriminate. He treats everyone equally,” he added.
READ ALSO: Peter Obi Prays for Nigeria’s Peace and Renewal During Spiritual Pilgrimage to Rome
The Minister urged political leaders from the South-East to remain patient, united, and supportive of the current administration, saying their time would come.
“Yes, we remember the past, but it is important to also see the present realities. When the time comes, our sons and daughters are qualified and capable to lead Nigeria,” Umahi concluded.
