The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has been honoured as the 2025 Personality of the Year (Infrastructure Transformation Champion) by Aljazirah Nigeria Newspaper, following what organisers described as a rigorous and independent assessment of projects under his ministry.
The award, presented on Wednesday, was based on months of scrutiny, investigations and verification of infrastructure projects across the country.
Receiving the honour alongside top officials of the ministry, including the Permanent Secretary and directors, Umahi expressed appreciation, noting that the credibility of the process made the recognition particularly meaningful.
“What makes this recognition particularly important to me is the process behind it.
“I understand that you undertook a thorough review of the Ministry’s operations independently, without my knowledge,” he said.
The minister maintained that all projects executed under his leadership are transparent and can withstand public scrutiny, stressing that accountability remains a core principle guiding the ministry’s operations.
Umahi revealed that the ministry had formally invited anti-corruption agencies, including the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), to independently assess its projects and procurement processes.
According to him, the ICPC has already concluded part of its review and commenced further checks within the ministry.
He also highlighted a major policy shift under his leadership—the transition from asphalt to concrete roads—describing it as a challenging but necessary reform aimed at long-term sustainability.
“Most of the roads we are now constructing are concrete, designed to last up to a hundred years with minimal or no maintenance,” he said, adding that the move represents a strategic investment in Nigeria’s future.
The Minister emphasised the broader impact of infrastructure development, describing roads as critical lifelines that enhance mobility, economic activity and national integration.
Umahi further urged media practitioners and the public to prioritise fact-checking and responsible communication, noting that accountability extends to all stakeholders in the information space.
Earlier, the Chief Executive Officer of Aljazirah Nigeria Newspaper, Bassey Williams, said the award followed a detailed and independent selection process, which also included investigations into past allegations against the minister.
He noted that no evidence of corruption was found after extensive inquiries conducted both locally and internationally.
Williams added that under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Ministry of Works has recorded significant progress in project execution, planning and nationwide infrastructure delivery.
He cited major projects, including the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, as evidence of the ministry’s expanding impact, noting that ongoing developments across regions have repositioned infrastructure as a key driver of national growth.