Nigeria’s Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, has praised quality infrastructure as transformative, humorously describing it as his “healing balm” that restores his health without the need for a hospital.
Umahi made the comment on Friday during a visit to Makurdi, Benue State, where he inspected ongoing projects spearheaded by Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia.
In a statement issued by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, the minister expressed admiration for the state government’s progress, particularly in infrastructure development.
While reflecting on his past visits to Benue, Umahi remarked: “I am shocked by the development that has occurred here in the past two years. Even my aides, who have been with me since my time as deputy governor, asked me if this is the same Benue State we’ve visited before.”
During his inspection of roads and other projects, Umahi commended the quality of construction and credited the state’s leadership for engaging skilled contractors and engineers.
He highlighted the governor’s achievements, including road construction and the establishment of a Cancer Centre at the state’s teaching hospital.
“If I am feeling sick and I see good infrastructure, I will get well. I love development, and I am very excited about what Governor Alia is doing,” Umahi said.
The minister urged a focus on development over politics, emphasizing the need to prioritize the future of the country.
“I will go back and tell Mr. President what I have seen in Benue State,” he added, noting the strong support for both the President and the governor among Benue residents.
Umahi concluded by commending Governor Alia’s commitment to progress, stating, “When you have a heart to develop a place, it means you have put God first. Governor Alia has taken God first, and he is making us proud.”