- By Joy Onu
(Dr.) Innocent Chukwuma, CON, Executive Chairman of Innoson Group, visited the Ministry of Works headquarters in Abuja on Thursday to meet with the Honourable Minister of Works, Sen. Engr. David Umahi, CON, FNSE, FNATE.
During the visit, Chief Chukwuma praised Minister Umahi for the remarkable progress in Nigeria’s road networks. He noted that these developments have strengthened national connectivity, stimulated economic activity, and improved the quality of life for Nigerians across urban and rural communities.
Highlighting the transformation in Ebonyi State and the wider South East, the Innoson Chairman observed that even first-time visitors can see the tangible results of Engr. Umahi’s leadership, both as former Governor and now as Minister of Works. “Your leadership and the results it has produced are truly commendable,” he said.
Minister Umahi described Chief Chukwuma as a visionary patriot whose dedication to Nigeria’s industrial growth sets an example for others. He emphasized the critical role of private-sector leaders in driving national development.
Chief Chukwuma also expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for appointing Engr. Umahi as Minister of Works, calling it “a round peg in a round hole” decision that is already delivering visible results nationwide.
Turning to industrial development, the Innoson Chairman reaffirmed the Group’s commitment to domestic manufacturing and youth empowerment. He noted that Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing (IVM) has become one of Africa’s largest employers, sustaining thousands of families, and disclosed plans to hire nearly 2,000 additional workers in 2026 with the launch of a new factory for Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) trucks and electric vehicles.
A major milestone highlighted during the visit was the near-completion of a CNG Vehicle Manufacturing Plant, described as one of the largest of its kind in the world. The facility, with an annual capacity to produce 3,000 vehicles across six types, is equipped with state-of-the-art machinery and is expected to commence operations in the coming months.
The plant will also run a technical training program to equip young Nigerians with practical skills, providing employment opportunities either at the facility or elsewhere. Chief Chukwuma noted that this initiative will productively engage youth while contributing to national security.
Chief Chukwuma emphasized that the project aligns with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and revealed that the President will personally commission the facility upon completion. Minister Umahi has accepted the invitation to attend the landmark ceremony.
