“There Will Be No Need for Biafra Again,” Umahi Says as South-East Sees Renewed Federal Integration Under Tinubu Govt

The Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, has said there is no longer any justification for renewed agitation for a separate Biafran state, citing what he described as the full integration of the South-East into Nigeria’s national development agenda under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Umahi made the statement while inspecting ongoing federal infrastructure projects across the region, a visit that was recorded in a video now circulating widely online. He said feelings of marginalisation that once drove separatist sentiments had reduced significantly due to increased federal presence and investment in critical infrastructure.

According to him, the South-East is now firmly integrated into the national mainstream, with major road and bridge projects either ongoing or nearing completion. He said previous administrations had failed to sustain such efforts, leaving many projects abandoned for years.

Umahi expressed appreciation to President Tinubu, stating that the region is satisfied with the level of inclusion and attention it is receiving. He said the administration’s approach to infrastructure development reflects a long-term vision, particularly through the construction of durable concrete roads expected to last several decades.

The minister listed several projects in the South-East, including sections of major expressways being handled by different contractors, some of which had remained stagnant for more than 15 years before receiving renewed funding. He noted that one major road project costing ₦202 billion is expected to be completed by February, while another 72-kilometre stretch valued at ₦150 billion has already received significant payment.

He also highlighted projects such as the Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway, the Owerri–Onitsha Expressway, Section 2B of the Second Niger Bridge valued at ₦176 billion, the Enugu–Abakaliki Road costing ₦172 billion, and a 123-kilometre legacy project from Ndibe Beach in Ebonyi State to the Benue border valued at ₦424 billion.

Umahi said visible progress on projects like the Artisan Bridge in Enugu and a major flyover at Depot Junction in Eke-Obinagu further demonstrates the federal government’s commitment to the region.

He stressed that political relevance for the South-East should be achieved through strategic engagement rather than emotional rhetoric. He described his support for President Tinubu and the recent political realignments in the region, including the defection of the Enugu State governor to the All Progressives Congress, as deliberate and strategic moves.

The minister also commended governors in the region for their efforts, particularly praising the Ebonyi State governor for continuing development projects without unnecessary ceremonies.

Umahi concluded by describing the current period as a defining moment for the South-East, saying the region now has the opportunity to reclaim its rightful position within the country through sustained development and political strategy. He added that the present administration has opened a new chapter of reintegration and inclusion for the people of the South-East.