Nigeria’s Minister Of Works, Senator David Umahi, Has Publicly Declared

by HEDNEWS on January 27, 2026


Nigeria’s Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, has publicly declared that his political influence and capacity are significantly greater now than when he served as Governor of Ebonyi State, asserting he is now “bigger and more dangerous” and better positioned to deliver support and development for his home community and constituents.
Speaking at a community gathering in his hometown in Ebonyi State on Monday, Umahi told supporters that his current role at the federal level gives him far greater resources and influence than during his tenure as governor. He described his present stature as “ten times bigger” than before and said he was “very dangerous now” in terms of his capacity to provide for and uplift his people.
Umahi urged residents to embrace his leadership and ignore detractors, emphasising that his elevated role allows him to deliver significant projects and meet community needs more effectively than in the past. The remarks were made during a public event attended by local residents in Ebonyi, where Umahi flanked by family members including his budding politician son encouraged youths to come forward with their ideas and needs, promising he would use his influence to help realise those aspirations.
A video of his speech circulated widely on social media, particularly on X (formerly Twitter), attracting attention across Nigeria both for its bold language and the unusual phrasing of Umahi’s self‑assessment.

  • Umahi said his current political strength and access to resources are much greater than during his governorship.
  • He described himself metaphorically as “very dangerous” in influence, signalling confidence in his ability to impact development and support his people.
  • The minister stressed that his enhanced capacity would translate into practical support for constituents, urging them to present their needs directly to him.
    Umahi’s remarks have sparked widespread discussion online and in political circles, with views varying from support for his confidence to criticism for the boastful tone amid Nigeria’s economic challenges. Analysts note that such statements from a high‑ranking federal official can generate public scrutiny, particularly in a period marked by calls for greater accountability and humility in governance. Senator David Nweze Umahi previously served as Governor of Ebonyi State (2015–2023) and is a long‑time politician associated with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). He now holds the position of Minister of Works, overseeing infrastructure portfolios including major roads and transport projects nationwide. Umahi’s declaration underscores his ambition and self‑perception as a political heavyweight beyond state leadership, reflecting a broader trend among Nigerian politicians to assert influence nationally. His statement also feeds into ongoing debates about the role of personal wealth and political power in public service, especially in a climate where Nigerians are increasingly vocal about governance priorities and resource allocation.