…As FCT Minister defends support for President
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, as an “audacious top performer” and a “shining star” in his cabinet, as the former Rivers State governor marked his 58th birthday yesterday.
In a congratulatory message signed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu thanked God for Wike’s life, which he said has been defined by purpose, courage and service to the nation. The President praised the Minister’s resilience, “can-do attitude” and consistency in delivering results, particularly in the ongoing transformation of the FCT.
Tinubu highlighted key infrastructure interventions under Wike’s leadership, including the breaking of a 14-year deadlock on the Apo–Karshi Road project, noting that the Minister has demonstrated exceptional capacity in driving development in Abuja.
“Nyesom Wike has been one of the shining stars in the cabinet, developing infrastructure in the Federal Capital as never seen before and proving that his reputation as ‘Mr Project’ is not limited to Rivers State,” the President said, while wishing him strength to sustain the momentum.
Earlier, Wike had declared that he had no regrets openly supporting President Tinubu before, during and after the 2023 presidential election, insisting that criticism over his political choices had never distracted him.
Speaking at a birthday event held in the early hours of yesterday at his Abuja residence, Wike said his decision to back Tinubu was guided by character, integrity, equity and justice, adding that he was convinced power needed to shift to the South at the time.
He recalled that he was the only prominent figure from the main opposition party to openly support Tinubu ahead of the election, stressing that he never concealed his stance. Wike also cited the outcome of the 2023 general elections in Rivers State as proof of his leadership strength, noting that while the APC won the presidential poll in the state, the PDP secured victories in the governorship, National Assembly, State Assembly and local government elections under his watch.
The birthday celebration attracted political leaders across party lines, including National Assembly members from Rivers State, serving and former lawmakers, state Assembly members led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, local government chairmen, political associates and friends.
Several speakers described Wike as an achiever and astute politician with influence beyond party boundaries. Rivers State Coordinator of the ‘Renewed Hope Ambassadors’ and former PDP Chairman, Ambassador Desmond Akawor, called Wike the “naked wire” of Rivers politics, saying President Tinubu made the right decision by working with him.
Other dignitaries in attendance included Chairman of the PDP National Caretaker Committee, Mohammed AbdulRahman; Chairman of the PDP Board of Trustees, Senator Mao Ohuabunwa; PDP National Vice Chairman (South-South), Chief Dan Orbih; APC chieftain, Victor Giadom; former Abia State governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu; and Senators Sandy Onor, Magnus Abe, George Sekibo and Barinada Mpigi.
In his closing remarks, Wike thanked his political family and supporters for their loyalty, saying their backing had shaped his political journey. He reaffirmed his commitment to working with them in the interest of Rivers State and Nigeria, adding that criticism and abuse only serve as motivation.
The event ended with special prayers for the Minister and his family.
