The award, presented on Wednesday, underscored Umahi’s transformative approach to national infrastructure, which blends strategic planning, technological adoption, and rigorous accountability to achieve tangible results.
Speaking at the ceremony alongside his team, including the Permanent Secretary and Directors of the Ministry of Works, Umahi reflected on the significance of the recognition.
“What strikes me most is not the award itself, but the process behind it. The independent review was conducted without my prior knowledge, and the depth of scrutiny affirms the transparency and robustness of our work," he said.
At the heart of Umahi’s infrastructure reforms is the transition from asphalt to predominantly concrete road networks, a move designed for durability, longevity, and cost efficiency.
Concrete roads under his administration are engineered to last up to a century with minimal maintenance, representing a paradigm shift in national infrastructure strategy.
“Roads are more than concrete and asphalt; they are lifelines that connect communities, drive commerce, and foster socio-economic development.
"Our mission is to ensure that every project we undertake delivers measurable impact and withstands scrutiny," Umahi said.
In a demonstration of accountability, the Ministry formally invited Nigeria’s anti-corruption agencies, ICPC and EFCC, to audit its projects on the ground, not just on paper.
"This is about institutional transparency. Every cost, every component, is verifiable,” Umahi stated.
Umahi called on the media to act responsibly in the era of rapid information flow. “Freedom of expression is vital, but it comes with accountability. Facts must be verified, and narratives must reflect reality,” he said.
The CEO of Al Jazeera Nigeria Newspaper, Bassey Williams, highlighted Umahi’s unprecedented execution capacity.
“After months of rigorous evaluation, our committee concluded that Senator Umahi embodies infrastructure excellence.
"His ministry has consistently delivered projects of national significance, reshaping critical corridors from the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway to northern and southern corridors," he said.
Addressing past allegations, Williams confirmed: “Extensive investigations in 2024 and 2025 yielded no evidence of wrongdoing. Umahi’s tenure is distinguished by transparency, accountability, and consistent delivery.”
The recognition came at a time when the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu prioritizes sustainable infrastructure as a cornerstone of national development.
Umahi’s work has been pivotal in translating this vision into concrete outcomes, including improved road connectivity, reduced transportation costs, and enhanced economic activity across Nigeria.
