The apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has endorsed two ministers in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
The group endorsed Dave Umahi, minister of works and his Federal Capital Territory (FCT) counterpart, Nyesom Wike.
The Ohanzeze said the endorsement is in light of the anticipated cabinet reshuffle by President Tinubu scheduled for October 1, 2024.
The group said in a statement signed by its Secretary General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro:
Ohanaeze Ndigbo extends heartfelt gratitude to President Tinubu’s administration for the invaluable appointments of Senator Dave Umahi and Barrister Nyesom Wike.
We ardently appeal for their retention in their respective portfolios. Senator Umahi has exemplified exceptional professionalism and an unwavering commitment to advancing the interests of the Southeast.
His adept facilitation of a productive partnership with the Federal Government has been instrumental in mitigating the challenges faced during the recent August nationwide hunger protests.
The infrastructural advancements and ongoing road projects in the Southeast stand as a testament to this fruitful collaboration.
Furthermore, Barr Nyesom Wike, the esteemed Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has demonstrated remarkable ingenuity and innovation in his approach to governance, fostering significant developments in Abuja.
These accomplishments affirm our confidence in their leadership capabilities. Ohanaeze Ndigbo proudly passes a Vote of Confidence on both leaders, recognizing them as indispensable pillars supporting President Tinubu’s administration over the past 14 months.
Isiguzoro also emphasized the pressing need for President Tinubu to reward the Southeast with additional ministerial slots.
He said the region boasts an array of capable and proficient Igbos, just Umahi, who can contribute to the realization of the President’s economic aspirations and transformative policies.
”To efficiently transition Nigeria’s economy from a state of overreliance on consumption to a vibrant production-focused model, President Tinubu must inject Igbo ingenuity into his administration by empowering competent professionals through enhanced representation in sensitive ministries.
”Such strategic appointments will undoubtedly alter the narrative fueled by detractors and catalyze favourable outcomes, thus restoring the confidence of Nigerians and quelling the discontent that occasionally surfaces in various regions,” he added.