NYESOM WIKE

Ezenwo Nyesom Wike CON, born on December 13, 1967, is a prominent Nigerian politician and lawyer currently serving as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, a position he has held since 2023. His political career is marked by his tenure as the Governor of Rivers State from 2015 to 2023. Known for his dynamic leadership and robust political presence, Wike's journey from local governance to national prominence is a testament to his dedication and influence within Nigerian politics.

Wike hails from Rumuepirikom in the Obio-Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State, Nigeria. As a member of the Ikwerre ethnic group, he has made substantial contributions to his community and the state at large. He is affiliated with the People's Democratic Party (PDP), through which he has built a substantial political career.

Wike's educational background includes attending Government Secondary School Eneka, where he completed his secondary education. He then pursued higher education at the Rivers State University of Science and Technology (RSUT), earning a Bachelor of Laws degree. Furthering his academic qualifications, he attended Law School in 1997 and later obtained a Master of Arts degree in Political and Administrative Studies from RSUT.

Wike began his political career as the Executive Chairman of Obio Akpor Local Government Area, a position he held from 1999 to 2007. His effective leadership in this role earned him re-election in 2003. His political ascent continued when he was appointed Chief of Staff to the Governor of Rivers State, Rotimi Amaechi, in 2007.

In July 2011, President Goodluck Jonathan appointed Wike as the Minister of State for Education, and he was promoted to Federal Minister of Education in September 2013. He resigned from this position to run for the governorship of Rivers State, which he won in the 2015 elections. His victory was contested, but he successfully navigated the legal challenges to remain in office.

During his tenure as governor, Wike initiated numerous developmental projects and reforms. Notably, he declared public primary and secondary education free and initiated the construction of several flyovers in Port Harcourt to improve infrastructure. His administration also introduced free registration for the annual Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination for locals and strengthened women's property inheritance rights through new legislation.

In 2019, Wike was re-elected as governor, continuing his focus on development and governance. His influence extended beyond Rivers State, as he ran for the PDP presidential ticket in 2022 but lost to Atiku Abubakar.

In August 2023, President Bola Tinubu appointed Wike as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, a position that allows him to bring his extensive experience in governance to the national stage. Wike's career is a testament to his dedication to public service and his ability to implement significant reforms, earning him a notable place in Nigerian politics.

REFERENCE: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nyesom_Wike