Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, has paid glowing tribute to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, acknowledging his role in shaping his political journey.
Fubara made the remarks while receiving the “Man of the Year” award presented by New Telegraph. He said Wike discovered his potential and brought him to national prominence.
“I dedicate this award to somebody who also discovered me, not minding the situation — the Honourable Minister of FCT. He discovered me, and it is his discovery that gave me this loudness,” the governor stated.
Fubara described the recognition as both a personal milestone and a symbolic honour for individuals who have stood by him during challenging moments in his public life. He thanked the management of the newspaper for counting him among personalities worthy of special recognition.
Reflecting on recent political challenges, the governor described the period as one marked by “special pain,” which some interpreted as weakness and others as strength. He said his decision to embrace what critics describe as weakness was deliberate and aimed at preserving peace and stability.
“Weak because I want peace. Weak because we need to survive. Weak because I need to protect those things that are dear, not just to me, but to our dear nation,” he said.
Also honoured at the event was Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who received the Governor of the Year Award on Innovation. Represented by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, he thanked the organisers for recognising the state’s strides in innovation.
The publisher of New Telegraph, Dr. Uzor Kalu, commended the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu for efforts at stabilising the economy and steering the country forward.
Other award recipients included Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State (Governor of the Year), Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State (Distinguished Leadership Award), Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State (Governor of the Year, Education), Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State (Governor of the Year, Digital Economy and Skill Development), and Governor Ahmad Aliyu of Sokoto State (Governor of the Year, Human Capital Development).
Also recognised were Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State (Governor of the Year, Projects), Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State (Governor of the Year, Infrastructure), and Governor Mohammed Bago of Niger State (Governor of the Year, Agriculture).
The 2023 presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, received a Lifetime Achievement Award, while the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, was honoured with the Visionary Leadership and Innovation Award.
Also recognised were the Managing Director of Zenith Bank, Dr. Adaora Umeoji (Banker of the Year 2025); the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku (Public Servant of the Year 2025); the Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure, Khalil Suleiman Halilu (Outstanding Service in Innovation and Reform); High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo (Tompolo) (Personality of the Year, Security); and the CEO of UTM Offshore Limited, Dr. Julius Rone (Personality of the Year, Oil and Gas).
