Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, has said that ongoing legal disputes involving Winhomes Estate will not derail government projects or discourage Nigerians in the diaspora from investing in the country’s infrastructure and real estate sectors.
Speaking on Arise TV on Tuesday, Umahi maintained that while there were pending court cases related to the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project, they do not affect its progress or the government’s reputation for transparency.
“Yes, there were and are still cases in court. The first case involved 39 people whose properties were demolished. They were evaluated and paid, even for shanties. The president directed us to pay because he wants to alleviate their problems,” Umahi said.
The minister expressed concern over what he described as misleading media narratives that could discourage genuine investors from the diaspora.
“I wanted to take on the woman because when she’s using the issue of diaspora investors, it makes other people, genuine investors, afraid,” Umahi said.
He emphasised that President Bola Tinubu’s administration remains committed to supporting Nigerians abroad who want to invest in the country.
“This government is very friendly with diaspora people, and we wouldn’t allow her to use the name and damage the administration,” he added.
Diaspora Investors Free to Engage Government
Umahi disclosed that several diaspora investors who reside in Nigeria have reached out to the Ministry of Works for engagement and clarifications regarding government projects.
“So, the diaspora investors who are resident in Nigeria have sent letters and want to come to the office to see me. I am willing to see them,” he stated.
He assured that the Ministry remains open to dialogue with all stakeholders and will continue to promote confidence among both local and international investors.
Despite the ongoing Winhomes controversy, Umahi reaffirmed that the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project was progressing as planned.
“The coastal highway is going on very well, very competitive. We are in session two now. We’ve opened session three and three B, 65 kilometres in Calabar,” he said.
The minister noted that the project, which aims to connect major economic corridors across the southern region, is designed to enhance tourism, trade, and logistics once completed.
Reacting to recent claims by Winhomes Global Services Ltd. that its project represented a $250 million diaspora investment, Umahi questioned the authenticity of the figure.
“If truly $250 million was invested, where is the proof? Who paid the money and through which bank? Nigerians deserve to know,” he said.
He argued that while the government welcomes private-sector participation in development, such claims must be backed by verifiable evidence.
In response, the Chief Executive Officer of Winhomes Global Services Ltd., Stella Okengwu, maintained that their investment exceeds $250 million and insisted that the ongoing legal process must be respected.
Okengwu, speaking on behalf of affected investors, said their firm remains committed to pursuing justice through the courts, while calling for transparency and dialogue between the government and developers.
Diaspora investors in Winhomes Estate, Lekki, had earlier criticised the demolition of properties along the Lagos-Calabar highway corridor, demanding greater legal accountability from the Ministry of Works.
Umahi reiterated that the Tinubu administration would continue to ensure that all affected property owners are treated fairly and compensated appropriately.
He urged the public not to interpret isolated disputes as reflective of the government’s approach to investment and development.
“This government will never discourage legitimate investors. We only want to ensure that development is carried out in line with due process, accountability, and the overall interest of Nigerians,” the minister stated.
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