Nigeria’s economy needs continuation of Tinubu’s reforms – Wike
Minister Wike Highlights Economic Recovery at Stakeholders Consultation in Rivers
OGBA-EGBEMA-NDONI, Rivers – The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike, emphasized that Nigeria’s economic recovery is contingent on the sustained implementation of reform policies initiated by President Bola Tinubu.
Wike made these remarks on Saturday during a stakeholders’ consultation organized by the Rainbow Coalition in the Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni Local Government Area of Rivers State. He argued that only a continued focus on the current administration’s economic direction could prevent the country from facing further collapse.
“The hard economic choices being implemented are necessary remedies to address a system that was virtually dormant when Tinubu assumed office,” Wike stated. He expressed confidence that the continuation of the Tinubu administration’s economic reforms is essential to reviving the nation.
During his address, Wike criticized the presidential candidate of the Africa Democratic Congress (ADC), Alhaji Abubakar Atiku, and his running mate, Rotimi Amaechi, suggesting that they have little to offer the Nigerian populace. He urged citizens to resist the influence of what he described as “career politicians” and “political opportunists,” comparing them to “chronic pool betters” who gamble with the public’s trust.
Wike further claimed that supporting politicians with extensive histories of seeking power would lead to the diversion of national funds towards recouping campaign expenses rather than advancing economic recovery. He also expressed doubts about the potential impact of Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate Mr. Peter Obi if elected, reiterating that President Tinubu has demonstrated true commitment to the nation.
Reaffirming that leadership should be evaluated based on past governance, Wike challenged his predecessor to account for significant capital allocations in Rivers State. He outlined the political strategy behind the cross-party Rainbow Coalition movement, asserting that achieving economic recovery necessitates synchronized efforts between the executive and the National Assembly.
Wike called on voters to support Tinubu and candidates from the All Progressives Congress (APC) running for various Senate and House of Representatives seats in the region, highlighting the need for legislative alignment with the president’s economic agenda.
He encouraged party leaders and community mobilizers to prepare for a substantial turnout on election day, stating, “I want total mobilization on Jan. 16, 2027. Everyone must be mobilized. Ensure we vote and win decisively to protect our collective future.”
In his remarks, Dr. Chukwu Shedrack, the Executive Chairman of the council, praised Wike for his contributions to local development, including road construction, hospital upgrades, and investments in human capital. He noted that these achievements reflect Wike’s leadership model.
Shedrack reaffirmed the council’s commitment to supporting the Tinubu administration’s economic recovery initiatives, pledging a comprehensive block vote for the APC in the upcoming 2027 elections. “We are fully mobilized, ward by ward and unit by unit. In the 2027 general elections, our people will deliver 100 percent support—from the presidency to the National Assembly and state assembly,” he assured.
