By Nkechinyere Ewa-Okpara
The 62nd birthday celebration of Nigeria’s Minister of Works and former Governor of Ebonyi State, Senator David Umahi, held in Abakaliki, turned into a glowing tribute to a man widely regarded as a transformational leader, political mentor to many.
Organised by the DUN Divine Foundation, the event attracted prominent stakeholders from Ebonyi State and beyond, with each speaker many of them former members of Umahi’s executive council sharing personal and collective testimonies of how his leadership, generosity, and development-driven vision have impacted their lives and institutions.
Pastor Nwachukwu Eze, member representing Ebonyi/Ohaukwu Federal Constituency in the National Assembly, described the celebrant as his “destiny helper,” lauding Umahi for uplifting others despite political differences. “He forgave me despite our political disagreements and provided the platform I stand on today. Umahi taught me that leadership is not just about material gain it’s about vision, reflection, and purpose,” he said.
Pastor Eze recalled leading over 1,000 youths during the #EndSARS Youth Engagement Programme, which Umahi entrusted to him. He described the experience as a turning point in his leadership journey. “He once asked me, ‘What can you offer your generation that they cannot resist?’ That question continues to motivate me daily in the National Assembly,” he added.
Barr. Cletus Ofoke, Chairman of the DUN Divine Foundation Executive Committee and former Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Ebonyi State, was unequivocal in his remarks: “Without Umahi in the Ministry of Works, Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda would have faced significant challenges. He is the driving force behind infrastructure delivery in this administration.”
Elder statesman and former Chairman of the Ebonyi State Universal Basic Education Board (UBEB), Hyacinth Ikpor, also praised Umahi’s enduring political relevance: “2027 is assured for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Francis Nwifuru, thanks to Umahi’s legacy and influence,” he declared.
Prince Richard Idike, Commissioner for Youth and Sports, likened Umahi’s leadership style to a practical training ground.
“He transformed us into capable leaders without needing formal certificates. He uplifts people and never forgets his followers.”
Obinna Nwachukwu echoed the same sentiments, describing Umahi as a global leader and mentor
“Working with Umahi is like enrolling in a school of excellence. He brings everyone along and constantly elevates those around him.”
The Planning Committee, chaired by Chief Emeka Akpuenika, former Commissioner for Youth Development and Sports, coordinated a grand celebration infused with entertainment, tribute, and reflection.
Representing the celebrant, Chief Austin Umahi thanked guests for their outpouring of love and reaffirmed Senator Umahi’s unwavering commitment to national and state development.
“This show of love demonstrates that the people truly value purposeful leadership. Senator Umahi is grateful and remains committed to service,” he affirmed.
The event also featured current and former government officials, including Chidiebere Uzor, former Chairman of Onicha Local Government Area, who shared heartfelt anecdotes about Umahi’s role in helping many rise from “grass to grace” in both politics and enterprise.
A symbolic highlight of the ceremony was the cutting of a birthday cake creatively designed in the shape of a civil engineering toolset underscoring Umahi’s legacy as an infrastructural giant.
As the event drew to a close, one message rang loud and clear: Senator David Umahi’s influence transcends politics it is a legacy of impact, empowerment, and nation-building.