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2023 Presidency: I’ve Capacity To Salvage Nigeria -Wike …Seeks IBB, Abdulsalami’s Support In Niger …As Bode George, Lagos PDP Back Rivers Gov

Published

4 years ago

April 6, 2022

Rivers State Governor, Chief Nyesom Wike has declared that he has the capacity and energy required to serve and salvage Nigeria as its president come 2023.
Wike made the declaration at Gombe State, yesterday, when he visited leaders and faithful of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as part of ongoing consultation ahead of the party’s presidential primary election.
Also, the Rivers State governor, last Monday, held a closed door consultative meeting on his 2023 presidential bid with two former military heads of state, Gen Ibrahim Babangida; and Gen Abdulsalami Abubakar; in Minna, Niger State capital.
This is as support for the presidential aspiration of Rivers State Governor, Chief Nyesom Wike, continues to grow following his endorsement by former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Bode George, and the Lagos State Chapter of the party.
Addressing stakeholders at the PDP secretariat in Gombe, the state capital, the governor urged them not to waste their votes as delegates at the party’s presidential convention on candidates who cannot win the 2023 general election.
“If you want PDP to win election in 2023 I have made myself available. Give me the ticket, let me go and take the power for you. We are talking about who can take this power from All Progressives Congress (APC). That person is me.”
Wike pointed out that people were free to visit Rivers State to see what his administration has done out of love and passion for the upliftment of the socioeconomic status of the people.
The governor stated the need to rescue Nigeria from dying and it required men of courage who love this country to do the work.
“We need to salvage this country. Let us not pretend about it. Insecurity does not know religion. Insecurity does not know ethnicity. Poverty does not know ethnicity. Poverty does not know religion.
“The people who come to kill us, do they look at who is a Christian? Do they look at who is a Moslem? Do they know who is Hausa-Fulani? Do they know who is Igbo? We are dying.
“So, it is not for sentiment. It is not for people to come and tell you, look, it must come from here, no, no. It is for those who have the capacity. If given the opportunity, I will replicate what I’ve done in Rivers State as President of Nigeria.”
Speaking further, Wike berated the APC-led Federal Government for the many lies they kept telling Nigeria concerning improving the agricultural fortune of the country.
Wike said the incoming PDP government will not tell Nigerians lies, make excuses for failure but will work to genuinely improve the life of Nigerians across the country.
“They said they have given over N300billion for agriculture. I have no problem with that. Even if they have spent N1trillion, where is the food?
“I don’t want people going to buy rice and doing pyramid. I want to see to it that agriculture is working.”
Wike noted that APC leaders have accepted that their government has failed and it sets the coast for PDP to reclaim the power and country back to Nigerians.
The governor said the insistence of some public office holders to hire mercenaries to fight bandits and terrorists overrunning the country was worrisome.
“And you have a president staying there, the security chiefs are there, and somebody is saying you must bring in mercenaries. You have seen it that the government has collapsed.
“I’m not the one who said so. Malam Nasir el-Rufai said the government has collapsed. Not me, not you, but APC has admitted that their government has collapsed. The Minster of Transportation said the government did not give him money that was why the bombing of the train happened.”
In his remark, the former Gombe State Governor, Dr Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo, commended Wike for visiting the state to formally acquaint PDP stakeholders of his presidential ambition.
Dankwambo, who acknowledged Wike’s excellent performance in office, assured him of Gombe State’s support if he clinches the presidential ticket.
“Power comes from God. God gives power to whom He wants. He takes power from whom He wants. We will contribute to PDP to takeover power. But at the appropriate time, whoever emerges the candidate will sit down with Gombe people and discuss. We will negotiate. We will not be taken for granted this time around. We will work for you, we will work for whoever emerges as candidate of the party under our mutually agreed pact”.
On his part, Gombe State Chairman of PDP, General Abnor Kwaskwabe (rtd) said Wike was a man of integrity, an impeccable leader, a bridge builder, a unifier of men, and whose interest in politics is for public good.
“This is a man that has touched the lives of Nigerians across the six geo-political zones. This is the man when one of the Northern States had fire in their market; nobody came to their rescue except, the Rivers State Governor, Chief Nyesom Wike.”
Similarly, the Rivers State Governor, Chief Nyesom Wike, last Monday, held a closed door consultative meeting on his 2023 presidential bid with two former military heads of state, Gen Ibrahim Babangida; and Gen Abdulsalami Abubakar; in Minna, Niger State capital.
Wike was accompanied on the strategic visit by some of his colleague governors including those of Oyo State, Engr Seyi Makinde; Enugu State, Hon Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi; Abia State, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu; former Benue State Governor, Senator Gabriel Suswam; Senator Suleiman Nazif; and Senator Olaka Nwogu.
Deputy Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum, and Abia State Governor, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu spoke to journalists after the meeting.
In his remarks, Ikpeazu said the delegation was in Minna to consult with the former heads of state in the build up to the 2023 general election.
“I have come with my colleagues, the governors of Rivers, Enugu, and Oyo; some members of the National Assembly and other stakeholders.
“First, to consult with the former heads of state, and discuss national issues: economic development, security, and unity of our country.
“And also, to commend them for their support for the unity of this country. And the discussions went very well; and we will advance it from there.”
On what response they got from Babangida, Ikpeazu said the former military president expressed strong concerns about the need for younger Nigerians to be courageous in taking up the challenge of providing leadership to the country.
“He expressed concerns and said that he expects the younger generation to take up the gauntlet and rescue Nigeria.”
Wike and his entourage also paid a courtesy call on the Niger State Governor, Hon Abubakar Bello at the Government House, Minna.
However, as support for the presidential aspiration of Rivers State Governor, Chief Nyesom Wike, continues to grow following his endorsement by former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Bode George, and the Lagos State Chapter of the party.
Wike received the nod of the influential party stakeholders following a closed-door meeting he had with the Lagos leaders of the party and other South-West bigwigs at the Ikoyi office of Chief Bode George, last Sunday.
Present at the meeting were the Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde; former governor of Benue State, Senator Gabriel Suswam; leaders of the party from the South-West, including the Deputy National Vice-Chairman, South-West, Soji Adagunodo, among others.
Expressing support for Wike’s emergence as PDP presidential flagbearer for the 2023 election, Chief Bode George, said the current Rivers governor possessed integrity and youthful energy to lead the country out of its present mess.
George, who was the host, thanked the members of the party in the state for coming to receive the delegation, stressing that Wike had told them in clear terms that he had the capacity to turn the country around for the better.
The former deputy national chairman of the PDP said the governor had the strength, capacity and integrity to rule the country.
He noted that Nigerians needed a bright person who “will take us out of the doldrums and lead us to where we should be.”
George said: “When it comes to integrity, when it comes to politics, when it comes to being absolutely resourceful, Wike is there.
“I must thank you for honouring our brother. We have heard him; he has told us a clear intention. When it comes to integrity, when it comes to politics, when it comes to being absolutely resourceful, he is there.
“He also has on his side that youthful depth that he can run from here to that gate in two seconds, I can’t do that anymore. It’s like army generals we don’t retire, we only fade away. But we need a bright young person who will take us from where we are all in now and bring a fresh breath to this country,” he said.
The Atona Odua of Yorubaland, who eventually secured a yes voice vote, pledged the backing of the Lagos State chapter of PDP.
“We welcome you; we are ready to support you in Lagos. Am I saying the right thing? Those in favour, say aye! Those against say nah!,” he said.
While stating his mission, Rivers State Governor, Chief Nyesom Wike, said Nigeria should not be allowed to continue to slide as something must be done to rescue her, assuring that he is focussed and possesses the capacity and integrity to rule the country.
This was just as he vowed to take power back from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to the main opposition party in 2023.
Wike restated his plans to reclaim presidential powers for the PDP and arrest the rapid decline of the country.
He said: “We cannot continue to let the country continue its disturbing slide into poverty and negative social-economic outcomes. Something has to be done.
“The challenges facing Nigeria today require a leader that is focused, competent, and courageous. And I can tell you that I have both the capacity and courage to confront and manage these challenges to make things better for this country.”
Wike said he should be given the opportunity to fly the party’s flag for the presidency, come 2023.
“I have spoken to the elders and leaders, and I hope they will get across to you what I said to them.
“Most importantly, we cannot continue to let the country go the way it is sliding, something has to be done.
“Today’s requirement of a leader must focus on capacity, courageous. I can tell you that I have the courage. I am not afraid of nobody. I have the capacity to make things better for this country.
“All I have said to you as elders is: give me the opportunity to represent PDP in the fight for 2023,” he said.
“What I am going to do is we are going to take back the power; we are not begging. They will be ready, and we are ready. The power belongs to us, and we must go and take it back,” he added.

Featured

JUNE 12: Democracy Remains Nigeria’s Strongest Path To Unity, Progress, Says Fubara ….Extols Abiola, Wife

Published

1 week ago

June 12, 2026

The Tide

Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has reaffirmed that democracy remains the most effective system of government for Nigeria, given the country’s rich diversity of ethnic, religious, and cultural identities.

In a goodwill message to Nigerians on the occasion of the 2026 Democracy Day celebration, Governor Fubara said June 12 represents far more than a historic date; as it embodies the enduring struggle, sacrifice, and collective aspiration of Nigerians for freedom, justice, and representative governance.

The Governor extended warm felicitations to Nigerians at home and in the Diaspora, paying tribute to the heroes and heroines of the democratic struggle, particularly Chief MKO Abiola, his wife, Kudirat Abiola, and countless others whose courage and sacrifices helped secure the democratic freedoms Nigerians enjoy today.

According to him, “June 12 is a reminder of the price paid for the democracy we enjoy today. The sacrifices made by Chief MKO Abiola, Kudirat Abiola, and many other patriots who laid the foundation for the democratic journey we continue to enjoy today. Their commitment to the principle that power must ultimately reside with the people remains a source of inspiration for every generation of Nigerians.”

Governor Fubara noted that thirty-three years after the historic June 12, 1993 election, Nigeria’s democratic experiment has continued to evolve despite challenges and setbacks.

“Our democratic journey has not been without difficulties, but the resilience of our institutions and the determination of our people have kept the nation moving forward. The ability to express differing opinions, engage in constructive debate, and peacefully choose leaders through the ballot remains one of the greatest achievements of our nation,” he said.

Governor Fubara stressed that democracy provides the best framework for managing Nigeria’s diversity and transforming it into a source of national strength.

“Nigeria’s diversity should never be seen as a weakness. Properly harnessed, it is our greatest asset. Democracy offers us the opportunity to build consensus, promote inclusion, strengthen national unity, and create the conditions for sustainable development and shared prosperity,” he said.

Governor Fubara commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda and ongoing efforts aimed at economic revitalization, strengthening security, and deepening democratic institutions across the country.

He reiterated the readiness of Rivers State to continue partnering with the Federal Government in advancing policies and programmes that improve the lives of citizens through infrastructure development, job creation, enhanced security, quality education, healthcare delivery, and good governance.

The Governor further called on Nigerians, regardless of political affiliation, ethnic background, or religious belief, to use the occasion of Democracy Day to renew their commitment to the Nigerian project and the ideals that underpin democratic governance.

“Democracy must not be viewed merely as a periodic electoral exercise. It must be reflected in our daily commitment to accountability, transparency, tolerance, justice, respect for the rule of law, and responsible leadership. As citizens and leaders, we all share a collective responsibility to strengthen our democracy and build a nation that future generations will be proud to inherit,” he said.

Governor Fubara expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future, urging citizens to remain united, hopeful, and committed to the values of peace, dialogue, and national development.

“Together, we can build a stronger, more inclusive, and more prosperous Nigeria where every citizen has the opportunity to thrive and contribute meaningfully to national progress,” he said.

Featured

Fubara Reaffirms Commitment To Peace, Development

Published

3 weeks ago

May 29, 2026

The Tide

Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of his administration to peace, unity, security, and inclusive development as Rivers State marked its 59th anniversary, last Wednesday.

In a goodwill message issued on Wednesday to commemorate the anniversary, Governor Fubara stated that despite the challenges faced over the years, the people of Rivers State have continued to demonstrate resilience, strength, and an enduring spirit of unity that has sustained the state since its creation.

The Governor noted that the strong bond of brotherhood among the various ethnic nationalities of the state, including the Ijaw, Ikwerre, Ogoni, Etche, Ekpeye, Andoni, Kalabari, and others, remains one of Rivers State’s greatest strengths and a critical foundation for peace, stability, and progress.

He further observed that Rivers State has remained a major driver of Nigeria’s economy for decades, not only because of its abundant oil and gas resources, but also because of the exceptional contributions of its people across diverse sectors including academia, jurisprudence, business, entertainment, public service, and sports.

Governor Fubara assured the people that his administration will continue to prioritize policies and programmes that promote peace, protect lives and property, and expand development across all parts of the state. He emphasized that governance must be people centered and impactful, with equal attention given to every Local Government Area of the state.

The Governor also paid tribute to the elders and founding leaders of the state for preserving the spirit of unity and coexistence over the years, while urging the youths to remain hopeful, responsible, and actively committed to building a greater Rivers State through innovation, hard work, and patriotism.

He equally acknowledged the invaluable role of women in strengthening families, communities, and society, describing them as indispensable partners in the continued growth and stability of the state.

Governor Fubara called on all Rivers people to use the occasion of the anniversary as a moment of reflection and renewed commitment to peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, dialogue, and collective progress, stressing that the unity and future of Rivers State must always rise above personal interests and political differences.

Rivers State was created on May 27, 1967, by General Yakubu Gowon.

Editorial

Nigeria’s 27 Years of Civil Rule Journey

Published

3 weeks ago

May 29, 2026

The Tide

Nigeria returned to civil rule on May 29, 1999, after several years of military intervention in politics. The transition marked a major turning point in the nation’s history and raised hopes for freedom, stability, economic growth and accountable leadership. Citizens expected that elected governments would strengthen institutions, improve living conditions and unite the country after years of authoritarian rule. Twenty-seven years later, civil rule has survived without interruption, making it the longest uninterrupted civilian administration since independence in 1960.

Since 1999, Nigeria has witnessed six administrations at the federal level. Olusegun Obasanjo governed from 1999 to 2007, followed by Umaru Musa Yar’Adua from 2007 until his death in 2010. Goodluck Jonathan served from 2010 to 2015, while Muhammadu Buhari led the country between 2015 and 2023. Since May 2023, Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been in office. Though democracy has remained stable, governance outcomes have produced mixed reactions among Nigerians.

The country has made some notable progress over the past 27 years. Democratic institutions such as the National Assembly, judiciary, political parties and the media have become stronger than they were during military rule. Elections are now regular, though still imperfect. Telecommunications, banking, entertainment and digital technology have expanded greatly. Nigerian youths have also become more politically aware and active. The country’s economy, despite its difficulties, remains one of the largest in Africa.

However, many of the expectations that came with democracy remain unmet. Corruption, unemployment, poverty, insecurity and poor infrastructure continue to trouble the nation. Public confidence in government institutions has weakened over time because many citizens believe political leaders have not done enough to improve their welfare. Ethnic and religious tensions also remain major challenges. While democracy has endured, good governance has not always matched the hopes of the people.

President Tinubu’s administration began with bold economic decisions aimed at reforming the nation’s finances. His government removed fuel subsidy and unified the foreign exchange system. Supporters argue that these measures were necessary to reduce waste and attract investment. The government also increased revenue allocation to states and sought to improve tax administration. Yet the immediate impact has been severe hardship for millions of Nigerians. Inflation, high transport costs and the falling value of the naira have placed enormous pressure on households and businesses.

In education, the Tinubu administration has promised reforms through student loan schemes, support for technical education and efforts to reduce strikes in tertiary institutions. Some progress has been recorded with the establishment of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund. However, public schools still face poor funding, inadequate facilities and shortage of teachers. Many students continue to struggle with rising school fees and declining quality of education.

The health sector under the current administration has also recorded both efforts and challenges. Government has pledged to improve health insurance coverage. Nevertheless, hospitals across the country still suffer from inadequate equipment, shortage of medical personnel and brain drain as doctors and nurses continue to leave Nigeria for better opportunities abroad. Access to affordable healthcare remains difficult for many rural communities.

The power sector remains one of Nigeria’s biggest disappointments after nearly three decades of democracy. Despite repeated promises and reforms, electricity supply is still unstable. Businesses and households spend heavily on generators and fuel. The Tinubu administration has introduced policies aimed at decentralising power generation and encouraging investment, but ordinary Nigerians are yet to feel significant improvement in electricity supply.

The rising cost of living has become the greatest concern for many Nigerians today. Food prices, transportation costs and rent have increased sharply. Though the Federal Government introduced palliative programmes and cash transfer initiatives to cushion the effects of reforms, many citizens believe the interventions have been inadequate or poorly distributed. There is growing demand for more effective social protection programmes targeted at vulnerable citizens.

On national security, the government continues to battle terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and communal violence. Security agencies have recorded some successes in parts of the country, yet insecurity remains widespread. Farmers in many rural communities still face attacks, affecting food production and increasing fear among citizens. Regional stability in West Africa has also become more uncertain due to political crises in neighbouring countries. Nigeria continues to play a leading diplomatic role in the region, but internal security challenges weaken its influence.

In infrastructure and other key sectors, the Tinubu administration has continued several road, rail and housing projects inherited from previous governments. Investments in ports, gas and digital technology have also been encouraged. In agriculture, government has promoted mechanised farming, dry season cultivation and access to credit. Yet food insecurity remains high because insecurity, inflation and poor rural infrastructure continue to affect agricultural productivity. Nigeria still imports many food items despite its vast agricultural potential.

To improve national conditions, the Federal Government must place greater attention on job creation, industrialisation and support for small businesses. More investment is needed in agriculture, healthcare, education and electricity. Anti-corruption institutions should be strengthened while government spending must become more transparent. Leaders must also prioritise national unity and reduce political divisions. Nigerians expect reforms that produce visible improvements in their daily lives, not only policy announcements.

In Rivers State, the 27 years of civilian rule have produced substantial development alongside political tensions. The state has remained economically important because of its oil and gas resources. Different administrations since 1999 have invested in roads, schools, healthcare facilities and urban renewal projects. However, political conflicts and struggles for power have often affected governance and slowed development in parts of the state.

Governor Siminalayi Fubara assumed office in May 2023 amid high expectations and intense political disagreements. In infrastructure, his administration has initiated projects such as massive road construction, bridge rehabilitation and urban development schemes in parts of the state. Ongoing works on major roads and public facilities have been presented as efforts to improve transportation and economic activities. Critics, however, argue that political instability in the state has distracted government’s attention from faster project delivery.

In education and health, the Rivers State Government has continued support for public schools and healthcare centres. Efforts have reportedly been made to improve learning environments and sustain payment of workers’ salaries. In health, there have been interventions in hospitals and primary healthcare services. On security, the administration has worked with security agencies to maintain peace, although political tensions in the state have created uncertainty. In the civil service, workers and pensioners have largely continued to receive salaries, stipends, and welfare support. The state government has also shown interest in agriculture and power development, though these sectors still require stronger investment and clearer long term strategies.

Going forward, Rivers State needs greater political stability to achieve meaningful development. The government should focus more on rural roads, youth employment, agricultural expansion and uninterrupted healthcare services. Investments in independent power projects and industrial development would help attract businesses and reduce unemployment. Above all, political leaders in the state must place the interest of the people above personal or factional battles. Democracy can only succeed when governance delivers peace, development, and hope to ordinary citizens.