Umahi: After God, My Loyalty Lies With President Tinubu

Abakaliki, June 9, 2025 – Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, has publicly declared his unwavering loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, stating that after God, the President is the only one he answers to.

Speaking to journalists in Abakaliki on Monday, Umahi reacted to a recent commendation from President Tinubu for his performance on critical infrastructural projects across the country. The minister described the commendation as “worth more than one trillion dollars,” emphasizing that it signified divine approval and recognition of his efforts.

“I have told the President publicly that my loyalty is to God first and then to him,” Umahi stated.
“When a man gives you the kind of trust President Tinubu has given me, you will be of the devil to betray him.”

The former Ebonyi State governor praised the President for the confidence reposed in him, citing an example where Tinubu did not question his handling of a project worth ₦1.6 trillion, which he described as an exceptional level of trust in Nigeria’s political environment.

“Have you seen where a man presides over the procurement of a project worth ₦1.6 trillion and his boss didn’t call to ask how he did it?” he said.

Umahi warned that betraying such a level of trust would be tantamount to inviting divine punishment.

“Anyone who betrays that kind of trust will incur the wrath of God,” he declared.

He further said he regularly prays that God should withhold His blessings if he ever puts himself, his family, or friends above God, President Tinubu, and the Nigerian people.

The Minister also dedicated the President’s commendation to all those who pray for his success in public service. He promised to remain focused on delivering results, especially with about 30 mega infrastructure projects slated for commissioning by December 20, 2025.

“This commendation means a lot to me. It motivates contractors to remain on their toes and complete these projects,” Umahi added.

The minister affirmed that he is personally involved in the inspection and supervision of the projects, which are spread across all six geopolitical zones of the country.