The Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has declared that the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, will be instrumental in delivering the South-East to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general elections.

Speaking in Abakaliki on Saturday, Deputy National President of a faction of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, commended Umahi’s 21-month tenure as Minister, citing “revolutionary” infrastructure projects that have reshaped the economic prospects of the region.

“Through Senator Umahi, President Tinubu has significantly altered the economic landscape of the South-East, instilling renewed hope and vision within the Igbo nation,” Isiguzoro said in a statement. “These visible federal initiatives will enhance the region’s economic viability and security for the next 30 years.”

He described Umahi as the “singular, trusted political leader” of the South-East with the mandate to mobilise support for Tinubu’s re-election, stating that his leadership stands in stark contrast to other Igbo political figures, including Mr Peter Obi and Governor Hope Uzodinma.

Isiguzoro highlighted Umahi’s record as former Governor of Ebonyi State and Chairman of the South-East Governors’ Forum, citing his role in transitioning Ebonyi from one of the country’s least developed states to a hub of modern infrastructure.

“As Chairman of the Governors’ Forum, Umahi secured key federal upgrades, including the transformation of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu and the proposal for a second international airport in Abakaliki,” he said.

Ohanaeze also credited him with the establishment of the South-East’s first regional security outfit, saying it was a timely response to persistent insecurity in the area.

“In a resolute declaration reflective of our historical legacy and future aspirations, Ohanaeze Ndigbo proclaims full support for President Tinubu, aligning with the vision and leadership of Senator Umahi,” the statement read.

It added that Umahi’s efforts in steering the region’s political leadership from opposition parties to the All Progressives Congress (APC) “remain one of the most astute political decisions of the decade”.

“With President Tinubu approaching the two-year milestone of his administration, Ohanaeze Ndigbo assures that Senator Umahi will galvanise the South-East in support of his 2027 re-election.

The group reaffirmed its commitment to unity, inclusive governance, and advocacy for Igbo interests within the national discourse.