Minister of Works, David Umahi
Minister of Works, David Umahi, has urged Nigerians at home and in the diaspora to stop “de-marketing” the country through constant criticism and negative narratives.
He stressed the importance of national pride, unity, and faith in Nigeria’s future.
Speaking in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Abuja, Umahi expressed deep concern over what he described as a growing culture of public condemnation and pessimism.
> “I feel so sad when people de-market the country both outside and inside Nigeria, cursing without knowledge,” he said.
“This is because a job is very easy when you are not the one doing it. Let there be a rethink.”
*“Obeying Rules Abroad, Breaking Them at Home”*
The minister didn’t hold back when speaking about the behavior of some Nigerians overseas who endure hardship but follow rules to the letter—only to return home and show disregard for law and order.
> “I wonder that when our people go outside the country, they suffer more; they pass through all kinds of humiliations and oppressions; they work sometimes for 19 hours and they obey all the rules.
But when they come here, they break all the rules. That is not good; let us have hope here,” he added.
Umahi insisted that Nigeria still holds vast opportunities for those willing to stay and build, pointing out that one could “make 100 per cent doing a job here, whereas you can’t make more than 10 per cent outside the country.”
*“The Worst Is Over”*
Commenting on the current administration, Umahi praised President Bola Tinubu’s leadership amid inherited economic challenges, noting that the president’s refusal to complain publicly is a sign of strength and focus.
> “What we inherited was so terrible. Everything became a priority. Even our fuel was sold in advance,” he revealed.
“But it is a matter of courage, and that is why the president is not complaining — we shall overcome.”
Despite the hurdles, Umahi said there are signs that the economy is stabilizing.
> “All the indices are breathing well. Inflation has dropped, GDP growth is over 4.23 per cent, and foreign reserves have increased by over 42 per cent.
The darkest part of the morning is the dawn. The macro economy is doing very well.”
He also emphasized that investments in infrastructure will gradually ease economic pressures and trickle down to ordinary Nigerians.
While acknowledging the role of public engagement, Umahi cautioned against empty criticism.
> “Let us work with the fear of God and support our government, and of course, engage in constructive criticism. Nigeria is great again,” he said.
He called on young Nigerians to match the efforts of past generations through discipline and hard work.
> “Forget about the noise makers… Even the Bible says he that doesn’t work should not eat. Hard work pays,” Umahi concluded.
NAN
