South-East Leaders Set to Endorse Tinubu’s 2027 Re-Election Bid at Ebonyi Rally

Political leaders, governors and stakeholders from Nigeria’s South-East geopolitical zone are expected to gather in Abakaliki, the Ebonyi State capital, on Monday for a major rally in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s second-term ambition.

The event, according to the Minister of Works, David Umahi, is intended to demonstrate the region’s appreciation for the Federal Government’s ongoing infrastructure projects and efforts toward inclusive governance under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Umahi made the disclosure during a media inspection of federal road projects in Ebonyi State, where he highlighted several ongoing developments across the South-East.

Nwifuru to Lead Stakeholders at Rally

The minister revealed that Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State will lead residents, political leaders and other stakeholders at the gathering, which is expected to attract prominent personalities from across the region.

He urged residents to assess the Tinubu administration based on its developmental projects and achievements rather than criticisms from opposition groups.

According to Umahi, several strategic road projects that had remained neglected for decades are now receiving attention under the current administration.

Umahi Highlights Major Infrastructure Projects

Among the projects highlighted by the minister is the proposed Calabar-Ebonyi-Benue Trans-Saharan Superhighway, which he described as a transformative initiative capable of boosting economic activities across multiple states.

Umahi noted that the project, originally conceived during the colonial era, had remained unrealised for many years before being revived by the Tinubu administration.

“It is a colonial-era dream long forgotten, but President Tinubu has revived it, and construction is now underway. We must thank him immensely,” the minister stated.

He explained that the first section of the highway, initially planned to cover 118 kilometres, has been extended to 123.6 kilometres, while dualisation works are currently progressing.

The second phase of the project, stretching from the Aboadi border through Benue and Kogi states to Nasarawa State, has reportedly been awarded at a cost of N668 billion.

Economic Benefits of the Highway

Umahi said the highway would serve as a critical economic corridor by improving the movement of agricultural products such as cassava, yam, cashew and palm oil from states including Cross River, Ebonyi and Benue.

He added that the road network would also strengthen commercial activities between Nigeria and neighbouring Cameroon.

“The Trans-Sahara Superhighway is not just a road; it is an investment corridor that will catalyse trade and regional integration,” he said.

South-East Receiving Greater Federal Attention – Umahi

The minister further argued that the South-East is benefiting from increased federal presence and infrastructure investments under the current administration.

“All our forefathers sought inclusiveness; we have it now,” Umahi added.

Governor Francis Nwifuru also commended the Federal Government for ongoing infrastructure projects in the state, describing them as vital to economic growth and regional development.