ABUJA, Nigeria — Nyesom Wike, the immediate past governor of Rives State, has pledged his commitment and passion for service as he appeared before the Senate for screening as a ministerial nominee on Monday, July 31, 2023.
His statement comes after President Bola Tinubu nominated him, the only Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, chieftain, for a position in the ministerial list of the All Progressives Congress, APC, administration.
Wike, known for his many political controversies in Rivers State and the People’s Democratic Party, emphasized his dedication to improving Nigeria’s infrastructure and willingness to work across party lines.
“These things can be achieved if you are committed if you have a passion for the job,” Wike told the lawmakers, reflecting on his tenure as governor from 2015 to 2023, during which he started and completed numerous projects.
He contrasted his drive with that of others seeking ministerial roles, saying, “There are so many people who want to be ministers for the sake that ‘I was a governor’, for the sake that ‘I was a minister’, but there are those who say, ‘Look, what do I have to offer? Am I committed to this job?’”
Wike further expressed his gratitude to President Tinubu and assured that, if confirmed, he would not let the President down. “I thank Mr President for nominating me. And I can assure you, if I am confirmed in whatever capacity, Mr President will not regret nominating me,” said Wike, who has previously served as a minister during the administration of ex-President Goodluck Jonathan.
The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, acknowledged Wike’s competence, affirming his capability to deliver in office, and subsequently allowed him to take a bow, signaling a likely smooth confirmation process.
Wike’s nomination has been a significant point of discussion across the political spectrum, reflecting an unexpected choice from the APC administration.
Some political analysts see this as a move to foster unity and inclusiveness across party lines, while others are closely watching to see how this nomination will play out in the complex and often turbulent Nigerian political landscape.
Following President Tinubu’s eagerly anticipated ministerial list last Thursday, the screening process for the first batch of nominees commenced on Monday, July 31, 2023.
20 of the 28 ministerial nominees completed their documentation for screening, with the remaining yet to finalize their paperwork due to being out of the country.
Wike’s screening marks a noteworthy moment in Nigerian politics, highlighting a rare collaboration between major political parties.
It remains to be seen how this appointment will influence the future of governance in the country and whether it heralds a new era of bipartisanship.
