Nigerian Minister of Works and former Governor of Ebonyi State, Engineer David Umahi, has commended President Bola Tinubu for fostering what he described as an "unprecedented" level of interfaith harmony and national integration in the country.
Speaking at the 2025 Sallah celebration organized for the Muslim community in Ebonyi State on Sunday night, Umahi highlighted President Tinubu's administration's religious and ethnic inclusiveness, which he said has reached an "excellent level."
"The relationship between faiths in Nigeria is much better now. It surprised many Christians when the President led a Nigerian delegation to the Pope's inauguration. That was very unique and historic," Umahi said, describing the gesture as a symbol of genuine respect for all faiths.
Religious Balance in Federal Appointments
Addressing initial concerns over the Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket, Umahi cited religious balance in federal appointments as evidence of the administration's commitment to inclusiveness.
"Christians currently hold about 62% of appointments under President Tinubu, while Muslims hold about 38%. That shows national cohesion in practice," he explained.
The Minister emphasized that the foundation of all religions is love, urging Nigerians to focus on common values rather than differences. "We all serve one God in different ways. Both Muslims and Christians preach love and the fear of God," he stated.
Southeast Integration and Federal Presence
Shifting to infrastructure development, Umahi credited President Tinubu with reversing years of federal neglect in the Southeast region.
"Before now, many Southeast states had no federal projects. But today, the federal presence is visible across the region. That is true national integration," Umahi said.
He applauded the President for appointing Southeast natives to top positions—including himself as Minister of Works, the Chief of Naval Staff, and the Minister of Science and Technology—describing these appointments as meaningful steps toward reintegrating the region into national governance.
"We lost political ground in the past, but this government is bringing us back. It's not yet perfect, but we are no longer left behind. We must acknowledge that and support the President," Umahi urged.
On interreligious collaboration in the Southeast, the minister noted that Christian participation in Muslim festivities has deepened unity. He mentioned that despite the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the state receiving late notice for the event, several Christian leaders—including Southeast CAN Chairman, Rev. Fr. Abraham Nwali—attended in solidarity.
Call for Constructive Engagement
Umahi called on the people of the Southeast to reject divisive narratives and focus instead on constructive engagement with the federal government.
"The Southeast must count one before counting two. We need reintegration, not isolation. President Tinubu has started this process—we must not waste the opportunity," he emphasized.
Reaffirming his loyalty to President Tinubu, Umahi commended the President's unwavering support for the Ministry of Works, calling it a reflection of sincere national leadership.
"If you betray such a man, you betray God and Nigeria. I serve both God and the President with the fear of God," he declared.
Muslim community leaders in Ebonyi, including Sariki Danjuma Gambo and Salis Mohammed, echoed Umahi's sentiments, commending the peaceful coexistence on display and pledging their full support for President Tinubu.
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