Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the prominent Igbo socio-cultural organization, has announced Senator David Umahi, the former governor of Ebonyi State and current Minister of Works, as the 2024 Igbo Man of the Year.
In a statement issued in Abakaliki on Sunday, the Secretary-General of the Chidi Ibeh-led faction of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, explained that Umahi was selected after a comprehensive evaluation of Igbo public officeholders.
The assessment, based on factors such as infrastructure development, job creation, security solutions, and democratic inclusion, saw Umahi stand out above other notable figures like Hope Uzodinma and Benjamin Kalu.
Isiguzoro also acknowledged President Bola Tinubu’s groundbreaking recognition of the Igbo people, calling it a historic shift in the Southeast’s relationship with the Federal Government, which has not been seen since the end of the Nigerian Civil War in 1970.
He praised Tinubu’s administration for prioritizing massive infrastructure projects across the region, many of which are spearheaded by Minister Umahi.
“Senator Umahi’s remarkable achievements as Minister of Works, including the revitalization of key federal roads and the creation of job opportunities through cement industry innovations, have greatly benefited the region,” Isiguzoro stated.
“His efforts in tackling security challenges along major highways have also contributed to restoring peace and order in the Southeast.”
Isiguzoro further commended Governors Peter Mba of Enugu and Francis Nwaifuru of Ebonyi for their exemplary governance, particularly their promotion of local government autonomy and transparency, which has fostered accountability in both states.
The statement also highlighted Umahi’s role in ensuring regional unity and collaboration with the federal government, pointing to his diplomatic efforts that helped prevent regional participation in national protests, thereby promoting stability within the country.
In recognition of Umahi’s extraordinary contributions, the Igbo socio-cultural group named him the clear winner of the 2024 Igbo Man of the Year award, noting his pivotal role in shaping the future of the Southeast.
The announcement also placed Rt Hon Benjamin Kalu as the second-best performer among National Assembly members.
