Umahi Mourns Senator Mpigi, Describes Death As Huge Loss To Nigeria’s Infrastructure Sector
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 and the nation’s infrastructure sector.
Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, delivered the tribute during a Night of Tribute held on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre in Abuja. The event attracted top dignitaries, including political leaders across party lines and traditional rulers from Ogoniland.
Umahi expressed deep sorrow over the senator’s passing, noting that it remains painful and difficult to accept given his immense contributions to national development. He described the late lawmaker, who represented Rivers South-East Senatorial District, as a man of integrity whose word could always be trusted.
He recalled that his relationship with Senator Mpigi grew stronger through the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, which gave him the opportunity to closely observe the late senator’s character and leadership style.
According to Umahi, Mpigi was widely respected for his dedication, loyalty, and ability to unite colleagues across political divides in the interest of the nation. He highlighted the senator’s role in fostering consensus within the National Assembly, including his contribution to the emergence of Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
The minister further noted that the late senator distinguished himself as a national figure who championed infrastructure projects beyond his constituency, advocating development initiatives across several states, including Lagos, Ogun, Sokoto, Kebbi, and Kano.
As Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works, Umahi said Mpigi strengthened legislative oversight and promoted effective collaboration between the National Assembly and the Federal Ministry of Works, which contributed to the delivery of major infrastructure projects.
He cited the senator’s interventions in resolving challenges affecting key projects such as the Bodo-Bonny Road and the rehabilitation of the Eleme–Onne section of the East-West Road in Rivers State, describing his approach as calm, strategic, and selfless.
Umahi also 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 senator’s contributions.
He expressed regret that Mpigi would not witness the completion of several projects he helped advance, including the Bodo-Bonny Road and sections of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway.
The minister assured the bereaved family of the Federal Government’s continued support, pledging to sustain the developmental vision championed by the late lawmaker.
He said the senator’s legacy of integrity, patriotism, and service would continue to inspire Nigerians and guide ongoing infrastructure efforts, while urging the public to take solace in his impactful life.
