Ile-Ife: The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike, has expressed strong support for President Bola Tinubu, asserting that he is the leader capable of steering Nigeria toward the realization of its full potential. Wike made these remarks during his 2025 Distinguished Personality Lecture titled “The Nigeria of our Dreams,” delivered at Obafemi Awolowo University in Ile-Ife.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Wike emphasized that Nigeria’s primary obstacle to development is poor leadership. He echoed Chinua Achebe’s sentiments from his seminar “The Trouble with Nigeria,” which asserts that the country’s problem lies in the absence of effective leadership. Wike highlighted that historical leadership in Nigeria has often been driven by self-serving interests rather than national development, across both military and civilian regimes.
Wike praised Tinubu as a leader who stands out for his commitment to progress and prosperity in Nigeria. He called for leadership characterized by resilience, sound decision-making, and a belief in Nigeria’s potential. Wike emphasized the necessity for a leader who could build, innovate, and prioritize excellence over mediocrity.
He further applauded Tinubu for his decisive actions, including the removal of the fuel subsidy on his first day in office, which former leaders had hesitated to address. This move, Wike noted, has provided states with more resources for development and is gradually stabilizing fuel prices through market forces.
Wike also commended Tinubu’s efforts to decentralize power and resources, addressing over-centralization by establishing regional commissions that empower local development. On security, he noted Tinubu’s approval for recruiting forest guards to combat banditry and terrorism, predicting a decline in such activities.
Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun, represented by Deputy Governor Kola Adewusi, described Wike as a straightforward politician with exemplary leadership and political experience. Vice-Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University, Prof. Adebayo Bamire, remarked on the timeliness and importance of the lecture’s theme, emphasizing the need for discussions on democracy, governance, and development strategies.
The Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Ogunwusi, praised Wike for his fearlessness and integrity, describing him as an ‘upright politician’ who speaks candidly.
