Gov. Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi has eulogised his predecessor, Sen. David Umahi, who turned 63 on Saturday.
Nwifuru in a congratulatury message in Abakaliki on Saturday, said he joined millions of Nigerians, friends, associates and admirers around the globe, to celebrate a remarkable statesman.
The governor said that the life of the Minister of Works, Umahi, has being a clear example of visionary leadership, courage, discipline, and real commitment to public service.
“We in Ebonyi see the event as more than just another birthday which provides a chance to celebrate a lasting legacy.
“This legacy has changed lives, improved the infrastructural stories and conditions of our rural communities and shown what purposeful leadership can do.
“Umahi’s impact is visible across the country through bold reforms, smart engineering solutions and the faster delivery of key federal road projects,” he said.
Nwifuru said that Umahi’s work continues to justify the confidence President Bola Tinubu reposes in him, which reminds Nigerians that competence still matters most in public service.
“Your journey from a transformational governor to one of Nigeria’s most effective ministers shows that true leadership is not about the office one holds.
“True leadership is rather about the value one brings wherever he or she is called to serve, and this you have demonstrated.
“I warmly congratulate you on behalf of the government and people of Ebonyi and pray that God continues to bless you with greater wisdom and renewed strength,” he said.
The governor also wished his predecessor many more years of meaningful leadership, praying that the years ahead be more fruitful than the ones behind him.
“We pray that you continue inspiring generations of Nigerians through integrity, resilience and steady commitment to national development,” he added.
The newsmen recall that the relationship between the duo dates back to 2008 when Umahi was the State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Nwifuru was an Ex–Officio Member.