By Ben Adoga, Abuja
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has thrown his weight behind the emergence of Kingsley Chinda as governorship candidate in Rivers State, describing him as an experienced politician with the capacity to lead the state.
Wike, who spoke while inspecting ongoing infrastructure projects across the FCT, said Chinda’s political profile and experience made him a strong contender ahead of the 2027 elections.
“A good product markets itself. Everybody knows that Kingsley Chinda is a material,” Wike stated.
The minister praised Chinda’s legislative experience and public profile, noting that he distinguished himself during his tenure as Minority Leader in the House of Representatives.
Wike also took a swipe at Siminalayi Fubara over his reported attempt to seek another term in office, insisting that there had been an understanding that the governor would not pursue re-election.
“In the first place, he ought not to have collected the form because the agreement was that the impeachment issue would be dropped while he would not talk about a second tenure,” Wike said.
He added that Fubara’s withdrawal from the race did not come as a surprise to him.
The FCT minister also used the occasion to commend contractors handling major projects in Abuja, expressing satisfaction with the pace and quality of work.
According to him, several projects inspected, including the Renewed Hope City in Karsana, the Old Keffi Road project in Dei-Dei, and the Airport Road-Kuje road project, were nearing completion and ready for commissioning.
“We are seeing governance through infrastructure. Anybody who visits these sites will appreciate the transformation taking place,” Wike said.
He particularly applauded the ongoing remodelling of the Abuja City Gate, describing it as a landmark initiative championed by Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu.
“When people drive into Abuja at night now, they will truly feel they are entering the capital city of Nigeria,” the minister added.
