David Umahi biography – Discover everything about Nigeria’s Minister of Works including his net worth, age, wife Rachael Umahi, children, Ebonyi State governorship, and political career journey from 1963 to 2025.
Contents
- 1 Who is David Umahi?
- 2 Quick Facts About David Umahi
- 3 Early Life and Family Background
- 4 Educational Journey and Professional Training
- 5 Business Career and Wealth Accumulation
- 6 Political Career Journey
- 7 First Term as Governor of Ebonyi State (2015-2019)
- 8 Second Term as Governor (2019-2023)
- 9 Career as Senator and Minister of Works
- 10 Personal Life and Family
- 11 David Umahi’s Net Worth and Assets
- 12 Major Achievements and Contributions
- 13 Career Timeline & Major Milestones
- 14 Controversies and Challenges
- 15 Legacy and Impact Assessment
- 16 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- 16.1 1. What is David Umahi’s current position in government?
- 16.2 2. How old is David Umahi?
- 16.3 3. Who is David Umahi’s wife?
- 16.4 4. How many children does David Umahi have?
- 16.5 5. What is David Umahi’s net worth?
- 16.6 6. Which state is David Umahi from?
- 16.7 7. When did David Umahi defect from PDP to APC?
- 16.8 8. What is David Umahi’s educational background?
- 16.9 9. How long was David Umahi governor of Ebonyi State?
- 16.10 10. What major projects has David Umahi completed?
- 16.11 Share this post:
Who is David Umahi?
David Nweze Umahi is a prominent Nigerian politician, civil engineer, and businessman who currently serves as Nigeria’s Minister of Works since August 2023. Born on July 25, 1963 (some sources cite 1964), in Uburu, Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, Umahi has built an impressive career spanning engineering, business, and politics over the past four decades.
As Minister of Works, Umahi previously served as Governor of Ebonyi State from 2015 to 2023, Deputy Governor from 2011 to 2015, and briefly as Senator representing Ebonyi South Senatorial District in 2023. His journey from a young civil engineer to one of Nigeria’s most influential political figures represents a remarkable story of ambition, hard work, and strategic political maneuvering.
Known for his infrastructure development expertise and controversial political defection from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2020, Umahi has remained a significant figure in Nigerian politics. His tenure as governor was marked by extensive road construction and flyover projects that transformed Ebonyi State’s landscape, though not without controversies surrounding funding and governance style.
Umahi himself has claimed that he became a billionaire at age 25 through hard work and commitment to duty, establishing multiple successful engineering and construction companies before entering politics. His appointment as Nigeria’s first Igbo Minister of Works represents a historic milestone in the country’s political landscape.
Quick Facts About David Umahi
Category | Details |
---|---|
Full Name | David Nweze Umahi |
Date of Birth | July 25, 1963 (age 61 years as of 2025) |
Place of Birth | Umunaga, Uburu, Ohaozara LGA, Ebonyi State |
State of Origin | Ebonyi State, Nigeria |
Nationality | Nigerian |
Profession | Politician, Civil Engineer, Businessman |
Current Position | Minister of Works, Federal Republic of Nigeria |
Education | B.Sc. Civil Engineering, Enugu State University (1987) |
Political Party | All Progressives Congress (APC) – formerly PDP |
Wife | Chief Mrs. Rachael Umahi |
Children | 4-7 children (sources vary) |
National Honor | Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) |
Estimated Net Worth | $5-20 million USD (estimates vary) |
Religion | Christianity |
Early Life and Family Background
Birth and Childhood
David Nweze Umahi was born on July 25, 1963, to Elder Joseph Umahi Nwaze and Deaconess Margaret Umahi in Umunaga village, Uburu, in Ohaozara Local Government Area of what is now Ebonyi State. Growing up in southeastern Nigeria during the post-civil war era, young David experienced the challenges and opportunities that shaped many Igbo children of his generation.
His early years in Uburu were marked by strong family values and emphasis on education. The Umahi family was well-respected in their community, with his parents being active in church activities and community development. This religious and community-focused upbringing would later influence David’s approach to leadership and governance.
Family Structure and Siblings
Umahi comes from a large family of nine children, comprising two females and seven males. His siblings have also achieved significant success in various fields, creating what can be described as a family of high achievers.
His notable siblings include Major-General Obi Abel Umahi (Retired), who formerly served as chairman of the South-East Security Committee, Ebubeagu, before resigning in May 2021. Another brother, Roy Umahi Nwaeze, is a legal practitioner who has made his mark in the legal profession. Austin Umahi Nweze, another sibling, served as the former South East Vice Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party, demonstrating that political involvement runs deep in the Umahi family.
The family’s connection extends to Nigerian billionaire Arthur Eze, who is reportedly Umahi’s uncle, though this relationship has occasionally been a subject of political discussions regarding his wealth and business connections.
Educational Foundation
Umahi began his education at Umunaga Primary School in Uburu between 1971 and 1977, obtaining his First School Leaving Certificate with distinction. This early academic excellence set the tone for his educational journey. He attended Ishiagu High School briefly before completing his secondary education at the prestigious Government Secondary School, Afikpo, where he excelled in sciences and mathematics.
His academic prowess earned him admission to study Civil Engineering, a decision that would shape his future career in both business and politics. The choice of engineering was strategic, as infrastructure development was and remains a critical need in Nigeria, particularly in the Southeast region.
Educational Journey and Professional Training
University Education
In 1982, Umahi gained admission to the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (formerly Anambra State University of Science and Technology) to study Civil Engineering. He graduated in 1987 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering. His university years were marked by serious academic work and the beginning of his understanding of Nigeria’s infrastructure challenges.
The choice of civil engineering proved prescient, as it provided him with technical knowledge that would later distinguish him from many Nigerian politicians who lacked technical expertise in the areas they governed. His engineering background would become a significant selling point during his political campaigns.
National Youth Service and Early Career
After completing his university education, Umahi underwent the obligatory one-year National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme between 1988 and 1989, which he completed at SAIPEM SPA in Benin City, Edo State. This experience exposed him to professional engineering practice and international standards in construction and engineering projects.
His NYSC experience at an international company provided valuable exposure to global best practices in engineering and construction management. This foundation would prove instrumental in his subsequent business ventures and later, his infrastructure-focused governance as governor.
Business Career and Wealth Accumulation
Early Engineering Career
After his National Youth Service, Umahi began his professional career with SCC Nigeria Limited, an Israeli water engineering company, where he quickly rose to become a Project Engineer. During this period, he supervised significant projects including the historic Umuahia Water Project and the Ndiegoro Aba Flood Control measures between 1988 and 1990.
His work with the Israeli company exposed him to advanced engineering techniques and project management systems that were relatively rare in Nigeria at the time. This experience helped him develop a reputation for delivering complex engineering projects efficiently.
Entrepreneurial Ventures
Umahi co-founded Norman Engineering and Construction Nigeria Limited with Dr. Ombo Isokarari, who was then the Managing Director of the National Fertilizer Company of Nigeria (NAFCON), Port Harcourt. By 1993, he had become General Manager and shareholder of the company.
His entrepreneurial journey continued with the establishment of several companies that would form the foundation of his business empire. He served as Chairman and CEO of Brass Engineering & Construction Nigeria Ltd., Focus Investment Nigeria Ltd., and Osborn La Palm Royal Resort Ltd. until he resigned in March 2011 to pursue his political ambition as Deputy Governor of Ebonyi State.
Path to Becoming a Billionaire
According to Umahi himself, he became a billionaire at age 25 due to hard work and commitment to duty. This claim, made during an interaction with market leaders in Abakaliki, highlighted his business acumen and success in the construction and engineering sectors.
His companies secured numerous contracts for infrastructure projects across Nigeria, particularly in the oil-rich Niger Delta region. The success of Brass Engineering & Construction in particular, which specialized in heavy construction and engineering services, contributed significantly to his wealth accumulation during his twenties and thirties.
The establishment of Osborn La Palm Royal Resort, named after his son, demonstrated his diversification into the hospitality industry. This resort became a landmark in Port Harcourt and later expanded to multiple locations, showcasing his business expansion strategies.
Political Career Journey
Entry into Politics (2007-2011)
Umahi entered public service in 2007 as the acting chairman of the Ebonyi State chapter of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). From 2009 to 2011, he served as state chairman of the party. His political involvement began relatively late compared to many Nigerian politicians, as he was already an established businessman by this time.
During his tenure as PDP chairman, he served for one year on the governing board of the Federal Medical Centre in Asaba as its chairman. This administrative experience in healthcare management provided him with insights into public sector operations and governance.
His leadership of the PDP in Ebonyi State was marked by strong organizational skills and the ability to manage internal party politics effectively. These skills would prove valuable in his subsequent political ascent.
Deputy Governor (2011-2015)
In 2011, Umahi became the Deputy Governor of Ebonyi State on a ticket with then-Governor Martin Elechi. This marked his formal entry into executive governance. His role as deputy governor allowed him to gain administrative experience while maintaining significant influence in state affairs.
However, in 2014, Governor Elechi supported Onyebuchi Chukwu, the Minister of Health, as his successor, which Umahi stated violated an understanding that he would take that role. This political disagreement created tension within the PDP and set the stage for a contentious primary election.
Umahi went ahead to defeat Chukwu in the primaries, demonstrating his political strength and grassroots support. The remainder of Elechi’s term was chaotic, with arson hitting the House of Assembly in February 2015 and motions taken to impeach Elechi over alleged unconstitutional gross misconduct, misappropriation of funds, and anti-party activities.
First Term as Governor of Ebonyi State (2015-2019)
Election Victory
Umahi was elected to the role of Governor on April 12, 2015, on the platform of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). The election was later challenged by the Labour Party, All Progressives Congress, and All Progressives Grand Alliance on the basis of widespread irregularities, killings, and wanton destruction of property.
Despite the challenges and controversies, the Governorship Election Tribunal affirmed the validity of the election in October 2015, allowing Umahi to settle into his role as governor. His victory represented a triumph of political strategy and grassroots mobilization.
Infrastructure Development Focus
Umahi’s governorship became synonymous with infrastructure development, particularly road construction and flyovers. Governor David Umahi completed over 20 roads in the capital city of Abakaliki, with particular focus on the Afikpo-Abakaliki Road and the Nkalagu Road which were rebuilt.
His engineering background influenced his governance style, as he personally supervised many construction projects and introduced new construction standards. He promoted the use of concrete pavement over asphalt, arguing that it was more durable and suitable for Nigerian conditions.
His administration succeeded in getting the Universal Basic Education Commission to provide billions of naira in matching funds that the previous administration had failed to access. The Umahi government made its payment and received the funds to start rebuilding and outfitting schools.
He also approved the state university staff advancement, a decision that had been on hold for years, improving morale among academic staff and enhancing the quality of tertiary education in the state.
Second Term as Governor (2019-2023)
Re-election Victory
On March 16, 2019, Umahi was re-elected as governor in the Ebonyi state governorship election. He polled 393,343 votes to defeat APC’s Sonny Ogbuoji who polled 81,703 votes. This landslide victory demonstrated his popularity and the appreciation of Ebonyi people for his infrastructure development efforts.
His second term provided an opportunity to consolidate his achievements and embark on even more ambitious projects, including the construction of multiple flyovers in Abakaliki, making it one of the few state capitals in Nigeria with such extensive elevated roadways.
Controversial Defection to APC
On November 11, 2020, Umahi declared his intention to join the All Progressives Congress, and on November 17, 2020, he officially defected to the party after long speculation. This move shocked the political establishment, as sitting governors rarely switch parties mid-term.
Umahi made his declaration of joining the APC for reasons including that the People’s Democratic Party has been unfair to the Southeast Geopolitical Zone and that it has been hijacked by one or two individuals. He initially claimed he would quit politics in 2023 after leaving office as governor, attempting to dispel speculation that he joined APC to pursue presidential ambitions.
Presidential Ambition
On January 11, 2022, Umahi declared his intention to run for the office of President of Nigeria in the 2023 general elections after consulting with President Muhammadu Buhari, just days after APC leader Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s declaration. This move conflicted with his earlier statement about quitting politics, raising questions about his political calculations.
His presidential bid, though unsuccessful, demonstrated his national political ambitions and desire to represent the Southeast region at the highest level of Nigerian politics.
Legal Battle Over Defection
On March 8, 2022, Umahi and his deputy Eric Kelechi Igwe were sacked as Governor and Deputy Governor of Ebonyi State respectively by the Federal High Court in Abuja for defecting to the All Progressives Congress while in office. The court ruled that the popular votes belonged to the PDP, and by defecting, the office ceased to be theirs.
However, on April 1, 2022, the Court of Appeal in Enugu State affirmed Umahi as Governor of Ebonyi State, saying his defection to the APC was immoral but not unconstitutional. This legal victory allowed him to complete his term as governor under the APC platform.
Career as Senator and Minister of Works
Brief Senatorial Career
Umahi won the APC Ebonyi South Senatorial district elections in 2023 and served as Senator representing Ebonyi South from June to August 2023. His time in the Senate was brief, as he had his sights set on a ministerial appointment in the new administration.
During his short tenure, he served as Senate Deputy Majority Leader of the 10th Senate, a position that gave him significant influence in the upper legislative chamber.
Appointment as Minister of Works
On August 16, 2023, President Bola Tinubu appointed him as Minister of Works following his nomination, screening, and approval by the Senate. He was sworn into office on August 21, 2023. This appointment made him the first Igbo person to serve as Nigeria’s Minister of Works, representing a historic achievement for the Southeast region.
As Minister, Umahi has brought his engineering expertise and hands-on management style to federal infrastructure development. He has been known for personally inspecting road projects across the country and introducing new quality standards for federal roads.
His ministry has overseen controversial projects including the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, which has generated significant public debate about cost, routing, and procurement processes.
Personal Life and Family
Marriage and Children
David Umahi is married to Chief Mrs. Rachael Umahi, described as a woman leader and devout Christian. Their marriage has been described as stable and blessed with children, though sources vary on the exact number. Most sources indicate they have between four and seven children together.
Mrs. Rachael Umahi has maintained a relatively low public profile compared to her husband, focusing on women’s empowerment and religious activities. She has been supportive of her husband’s political career while maintaining her own identity and interests.
Notable Son: Osborn Nweze Umahi
Osborn Nweze Umahi, one of David Umahi’s sons, is a significant figure in his own right, holding key positions in his family’s business enterprises, including serving as Managing Director of Brass Oil & Construction and Chairman of Osborn Lapalm Group of Companies.
His net worth, exceeding $200 million, reflects his business acumen and dedication. The Osborn La-Palm Resort, incorporated in 2011 in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, has within 12 years grown to have branches in three other cities in the country, becoming one of the biggest players in the Nigerian hospitality industry.
Religious Faith
David Umahi is a devout Christian and reportedly serves as a Deacon at Christ Embassy Church. His Christian faith has influenced his governance approach, with frequent references to divine guidance in his political decisions and policy implementations.
His wife’s position as a church leader has also contributed to their influence within Christian circles in Ebonyi State and the Southeast region. The couple’s religious commitment is reflected in their philanthropic activities and community development initiatives.
David Umahi’s Net Worth and Assets
Estimated Wealth
David Umahi’s net worth has been a subject of much speculation and controversy. Various sources provide different estimates, with most placing his wealth between $5 million and $20 million USD. Umahi himself has publicly stated that he is a very rich person, claiming he became a billionaire at age 25.
His wealth comes from multiple sources including his engineering and construction companies, hospitality investments, real estate holdings, and other business ventures accumulated over decades before entering politics.
Business Interests and Investments
His primary business vehicle, Brass Engineering & Construction Nigeria Limited, has been central to his wealth accumulation. The company has executed numerous construction contracts across Nigeria, particularly in the oil and gas sector and public infrastructure projects.
He also owns Focus Investment Nigeria Ltd. and was associated with Osborn La Palm Royal Resort Ltd., demonstrating diversification across construction, investment, and hospitality sectors.
Controversy Over Wealth Sources
On January 29, 2021, Peoples Gazette reported that throughout Umahi’s tenure as deputy governor and governor, he had transferred more than ₦3.6 billion in government money to his company, Brass Engineering & Construction Nigeria Limited, with bank records showing payments starting in 2011.
In response to these allegations, Umahi and an aide allegedly threatened Peoples Gazette reporters and the media house’s website was blocked. Umahi requested a retraction and ₦1 billion as “atonement” from the newspaper, and after the paper stood by its story, he sued Peoples Gazette for defamation and demanded ₦2 billion in damages.
Major Achievements and Contributions
Infrastructure Development Legacy
Umahi’s most significant achievement remains his transformation of Ebonyi State’s physical infrastructure. He constructed over 20 flyovers in Abakaliki, making it one of the most developed state capitals in terms of elevated road infrastructure. His administration built hundreds of kilometers of concrete roads across the state, significantly improving connectivity.
His signature projects include the complete reconstruction of major roads like the Afikpo-Abakaliki Road, transformation of the state capital with modern flyovers and dual carriageways, and construction of the International Market in Abakaliki.
Education Sector Improvements
His administration’s success in accessing previously unclaimed Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) matching grants helped rebuild and equip numerous schools across Ebonyi State. The approval of long-delayed staff advancements at Ebonyi State University improved the quality of tertiary education and staff morale.
Healthcare Initiatives
Umahi’s government initiated the construction of a College of Medicine in Uburu, described as potentially the first of its kind in West Africa. He also improved healthcare infrastructure across the state, building and renovating health centers and investing in medical equipment.
Awards and Recognition
In October 2022, President Muhammadu Buhari conferred upon Umahi the national honor of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) in recognition of his contributions to national development. He received the 2019 Best Governor in Educational Reforms, Infrastructural Development and Respect for Human Rights award from the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC).
Additional recognition includes the 2021 Award of Excellence in Leadership from Nnamdi Azikiwe University and the 2017 Award for Most Police-Friendly Governor from the Nigerian Police Force.
Career Timeline & Major Milestones
Year | Milestone | Significance |
---|---|---|
1963 | Born in Uburu, Ebonyi State | Beginning of life journey |
1987 | B.Sc. Civil Engineering, ESUT | Professional foundation |
1988-1990 | Engineer, SCC Nigeria Ltd. | Early career experience |
1990 | Co-founded Norman Engineering | Entrepreneurial beginning |
2004-2011 | Chairman/CEO, Brass Engineering | Business expansion |
2007 | Acting Chairman, PDP Ebonyi State | Entry into politics |
2011 | Deputy Governor, Ebonyi State | Political office debut |
2015 | Elected Governor, Ebonyi State | Executive leadership begins |
2019 | Re-elected as Governor | Second term victory |
2020 | Defected from PDP to APC | Major political shift |
2022 | Presidential aspirant | National ambition |
2022 | Awarded CON | National recognition |
2023 | Senator, Ebonyi South | Legislative experience |
2023 | Minister of Works | Cabinet appointment |
2024 | Lagos-Calabar Highway project | Major infrastructure initiative |
Controversies and Challenges
Misappropriation Allegations
The most significant controversy surrounding Umahi’s career involves allegations of transferring billions of naira from Ebonyi State government funds to his private company, Brass Engineering & Construction. These allegations, first reported by Peoples Gazette in 2021, have dogged his public service career.
His aggressive response to the allegations, including threats against journalists and legal action seeking ₦2 billion in damages, raised concerns about press freedom and accountability during his governorship.
Governance Style Criticisms
During his tenure as governor, Umahi banned for life the Correspondents of The Sun Newspaper, Chijioke Agwu, and Vanguard Newspaper, Peter Okutu, from entering Government House and government facilities in Ebonyi State.
He also ordered the arrest and detention of journalist Godfrey Chikwere over Facebook posts, attempting to use the Ebonyi Cybercrimes Law No 12 of 2021, which the judiciary later declared unconstitutional.
Critics described his governance style as authoritarian and intolerant of dissent, with his criminalization of political opposition and harassment of media professionals drawing widespread condemnation from civil society organizations.
Taxation and Economic Policies
In 2018, Umahi was criticized for introducing a new tax regime in the state which taxed virtually everything and increased taxes by significant percentages. This aggressive taxation policy, while aimed at boosting internally generated revenue, created hardship for residents and businesses.
Lavish Spending Controversies
Umahi was criticized for mismanaging funds by spending over ₦250 million on renovating the governor’s lodge and laying the foundation for constructing a new government house inclusive of a lodge. Critics argued these expenses were excessive given the state’s limited resources and development needs.
Defection Legal Battle
His defection from PDP to APC while serving as governor created a constitutional crisis that reached the Supreme Court. While he ultimately prevailed in court, with judges ruling that his defection was immoral but not unconstitutional, the controversy highlighted ambiguities in Nigerian constitutional law regarding party defection by elected officials.
Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway Controversy
As Minister of Works, Umahi has faced scrutiny over the ₦15 trillion Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project. Questions about procurement processes, project cost, routing decisions, and potential conflicts of interest have generated significant public debate and legislative investigation.
In October 2025, he had a heated television clash with journalist Rufai Oseni over the project, with the confrontation drawing widespread attention and criticism of his handling of media scrutiny.
Legacy and Impact Assessment
Infrastructure Transformation
Umahi’s most enduring legacy will likely be his transformation of Ebonyi State from one of Nigeria’s least developed states to one with impressive physical infrastructure. His focus on concrete roads and flyovers has set new standards for state-level infrastructure development in Nigeria.
His engineering background and hands-on management style brought a level of technical expertise to governance that is rare among Nigerian politicians, demonstrating the value of technical competence in political leadership.
Political Influence
As a major political figure from the Southeast, Umahi has influenced regional politics significantly. His defection to APC and subsequent appointment as Minister of Works represent strategic political moves that have given the Southeast increased representation in the federal government.
His willingness to challenge political conventions, including switching parties mid-term and pursuing presidential ambitions, has inspired debate about political loyalty versus regional interest in Nigerian politics.
Controversial Leadership Style
However, his legacy is complicated by credible allegations of financial impropriety, authoritarian governance style, and intolerance of criticism. His treatment of journalists and political opponents has raised serious questions about his commitment to democratic values despite his developmental achievements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is David Umahi’s current position in government?
David Umahi currently serves as Nigeria’s Minister of Works, a position he has held since August 21, 2023, following his appointment by President Bola Tinubu.
2. How old is David Umahi?
David Umahi was born on July 25, 1963, making him 61 years old as of 2025 (though some sources cite his birth year as 1964).
3. Who is David Umahi’s wife?
David Umahi is married to Chief Mrs. Rachael Umahi, a woman leader and devout Christian, and they have been married for several decades with multiple children.
4. How many children does David Umahi have?
David Umahi has between four and seven children according to various sources, including his notable son Osborn Nweze Umahi who is a successful businessman.
5. What is David Umahi’s net worth?
David Umahi’s net worth is estimated at around $5 million USD according to some sources, though he has publicly claimed to have become a billionaire at age 25.
6. Which state is David Umahi from?
David Umahi is from Umunaga, Uburu in Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State in southeastern Nigeria.
7. When did David Umahi defect from PDP to APC?
David Umahi officially defected from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) on November 17, 2020, citing unfair treatment of the Southeast region by the PDP.
8. What is David Umahi’s educational background?
David Umahi holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from Enugu State University of Science and Technology, which he obtained in 1987.
9. How long was David Umahi governor of Ebonyi State?
David Umahi served as Governor of Ebonyi State from 2015 to 2023, spanning two terms totaling eight years, after serving as Deputy Governor from 2011 to 2015.
10. What major projects has David Umahi completed?
As governor, Umahi completed over 20 roads in Abakaliki, rebuilt the Afikpo-Abakaliki and Nkalagu Roads, and constructed more than 20 flyovers, transforming Ebonyi State’s infrastructure landscape.