The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has identified a harmonious relationship between the executive and legislative arms of government as the critical factor for the speedy presentation and approval of budgets.
Drawing from Experience in Rivers State
Speaking on Friday, January 9, 2026, during a visit to Andoni Local Government Area in Rivers State, Wike reflected on his tenure as governor. He recalled the productive working relationship with the State House of Assembly, then led by Rt. Hon. Ikuinyi Owaji Ibani. This cooperation, he stated, was what enabled the timely presentation and passage of appropriation bills during his administration.
This comment comes against the backdrop of recent political tensions in Rivers State, where Governor Siminalayi Fubara faced impeachment threats. These threats were reportedly linked to investigations over the alleged failure to present budget proposals to the Assembly amidst an ongoing political crisis.
A Call for Unity Ahead of 2027
Wike used the platform to stress the importance of political unity, particularly as the country looks toward the 2027 general elections. He argued that cohesion among political actors is essential to overcome emerging challenges. The minister asserted that no single political party holds dominance in Rivers State, predicting that only a broad "rainbow coalition" would succeed in the upcoming electoral cycle.
"In 2023, we took a risk and supported President Bola Tinubu. Today, we are seeing the results," Wike declared. He listed strategic appointments, including the emergence of a South-South indigene as FCT Minister, as part of the dividends. He pledged that his supporters would continue to back President Tinubu in 2027, while vowing to correct mistakes made in Rivers State's local politics during the 2023 polls.
Addressing Projects and Political Critics
Turning to local development, Wike praised the Andoni people for their appreciation and noted that several projects were initiated in the area under his watch, with approximately 80 per cent completion achieved. He attributed delays to individuals "playing politics with the welfare of the people."
The minister directly challenged his critics, asking them to demonstrate tangible impact in their own communities. "If it were in the past, when one person wanted all the recognition, this would not have been possible," he said, expressing confidence in the current leadership of Andoni.
Other speakers at the event echoed Wike's sentiments. The Deputy Chief Whip of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Ofiks Kagbang, credited Wike with saving the state from crisis and vowed that the state would deliver votes for President Tinubu in 2027. Former Attorney-General Prof. Zacchaeus Adangor, SAN, pledged continued support for Wike and Tinubu, while ex-Speaker Ibani described Wike as a leader of uncommon goodwill and influence.
