Umahi Mourns Senator Mpigi, Hails Legacy as FG Moves to Immortalise Late Lawmaker

By Onwe Wisdom, Pan Afric Reporters

The Federal Government has paid glowing tribute to the late Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works, Senator Mpigi Barinada Barry, describing his death as a significant loss to Nigeria’s infrastructure development drive and national unity.

The position was contained in a press statement issued by Mohammed A. Ahmed Director of Information and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Works.

Speaking at a Night of Tribute held in Abuja, the Minister of Works, David Umah, expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the lawmaker, noting that his contributions to national development remain indelible.

“His passing is painful and difficult to accept, considering his invaluable contributions to the growth of our infrastructure sector and national cohesion,” Umahi said.

The minister described the late senator as a man of integrity and uncommon loyalty, whose influence cut across political divides.

“Senator Mpigi was a man whose word was his bond. In today’s political environment, that level of consistency and integrity is rare,” he stated.

According to Umahi, the late lawmaker played a pivotal role in strengthening collaboration between the National Assembly and the executive, particularly in advancing key infrastructure projects across the country.

He noted that Mpigi’s leadership as chairman of the Senate Committee on Works enhanced legislative oversight and ensured smoother execution of major road projects.

“His calm disposition, humility, and selfless service were instrumental in resolving critical challenges on projects such as the Bodo-Bonny Road and the Eleme–Onne section of the East-West Road,” he said.

Umahi also highlighted the late senator’s national outlook, stating that he championed development projects beyond his constituency, including in Lagos, Ogun, Sokoto, Kebbi, and Kano states.

He further revealed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu  has approved the rerouting of a section of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway through Ogoniland in honour of the late lawmaker.

“The decision to route part of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway through Ogoniland is a lasting testament to his legacy and commitment to national development,” Umahi disclosed.

The minister, however, expressed regret that Mpigi would not witness the completion of several landmark projects he contributed to.

“It is unfortunate he will not be here to see the commissioning of projects he worked so hard to actualise,” he added.

He assured the bereaved family of continued government support and pledged that the Federal Ministry of Works would sustain the development vision championed by the late senator.

“We will not forget his family, his community, and his good intentions for Nigeria. His legacy of integrity, patriotism, and service will continue to inspire us,” Umahi said.

Dignitaries at the event, including political leaders across party lines and traditional rulers from Ogoniland, described the late senator as a bridge-builder and nationalist whose impact transcended politics.

Analysts say the tribute underscores the growing recognition of bipartisan collaboration in infrastructure development, as well as the Tinubu administration’s effort to honour key contributors to national projects.