Whether you like the Minister of Works, Engr Dave Umahi or not, but you cannot ignore him. Over the years, he has proven himself as a great man: transformational leader and uncommon achiever.

As governor of Ebonyi State, he changed the narrative by sprucing up the state. In particular, the capital, Abakaliki, which was more or less a glorified village was transformed to a smart city with roads and flyovers crisscrossing the landscape even as beautiful lights give the place an enchanting look.

As minister of works, Umahi has made eloquent statement with his performance within a short time. A square peg in a square hole, he is unarguably one of the best performing ministers under the Bola Tinubu administration.

As Umahi clocked 61 last week, goodwill messages poured from the fringe of the Sahara to the Atlantic coastline.

The Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Grace Umezurike, on behalf of her family and the staff of the Cabinet Office, Abakaliki, extended her heartfelt felicitations to the minister.

She said: “As you celebrate this milestone, we acknowledge your exceptional leadership and unwavering dedication to infrastructural development. Your tenure as the governor of Ebonyi State was marked by unprecedented achievements and visionary projects that have left an indelible mark on our state. Your current role as the minister of works continues to demonstrate your commitment to national progress.

“Your transformative efforts have set new standards in construction and development, earning you the title of a true ‘construction guru’. Your impact is felt not only through the physical infrastructure you have developed but also through the countless lives you have touched and empowered.

“Your unparalleled love for the people and dedication to human capital development are evident in your efforts to secure federal and state-level positions for many sons and daughters of Ebonyi State, friends and fellow citizens alike. Your forward-thinking approach and genuine concern for the growth and future of others are truly commendable.

‘On this special day, we celebrate not just your birth but also the incredible legacy you continue to build. May you be blessed with many more years of health, happiness, and success as you lead with vision and compassion.”

For the president of Adu Youth Forum, Uburu, Mr Ene Odii Ogbonnaya, the minister is a unique person with very large heart. He said: “Dave Umuahi is in a class of his own. He is magnanimous, compassionate and an intelligent man, who is worthy of emulation. If you were around, you would have seen the massive turn out of people to celebrate a man who has given his all for the people. Nothing is too big for him to do for someone.

“He is a father and mentor to many. He has empowered many people who are now self-restraint. Many people have become educated because of his scholarship scheme. He is  a man in whom many are very well pleased. In all the offices he has occupied, he distinguished himself.”

Alhaji Abass Egwu Abass said: “On behalf of my self and the royal family of the Ogbu Egwu Nwa Obasi dynasty, the first warrant king of Uburu, I send hearty cheers to an illustrious son of Adu Kingdom, Senator  David N. Umahi on the occasion of his 61st birthday.

“Our dear son, father and leader, words will not be enough to express your positive impacts on the lives of your people and indeed the impact you have made as a national figure. We continue to pray for your sustained good health and God’s grace.”

Ashek Wears, the 12 beneficiaries of David Umahi Block Industry Empowerment and many others sent goodwill messages to the living legend.