Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has publicly endorsed Kingsley Chinda as the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate for Rivers State, affirming his political experience and leadership potential. Speaking during an inspection tour of key infrastructure projects in Abuja on Monday, Wike highlighted Chinda’s background in both executive and legislative roles, stating that his qualifications make him a natural choice for the governorship. “A good product markets itself. Everybody knows that Kingsley Chinda is the material,” Wike said, emphasizing that Chinda’s political pedigree and public acceptance make his emergence as candidate unsurprising.
Wike’s endorsement comes amid growing political activity in Rivers State ahead of the upcoming elections. He praised Chinda’s experience, noting that his work across different arms of government positions him well to lead the state. The FCT Minister’s support adds significant weight to Chinda’s campaign, given Wike’s influence within the APC and his role as a key figure in Nigeria’s political landscape.
Beyond the political endorsement, Wike also took time to inspect several major infrastructure projects across Abuja, expressing satisfaction with the progress made under President Bola Tinubu’s administration. He declared that many of the projects were ready for inauguration, citing them as evidence of visible governance and infrastructural renewal. “I think today is one of the happiest days,” Wike said, adding that the projects reflect a commitment to delivering tangible results for Nigerians.
Among the projects inspected was the Renewed Hope City road in Karsana, which is 98% complete. Wike commended Lubriks Construction Company for its excellent delivery. He also reviewed progress on the Old Keffi Road and Dei-Dei road projects, where asphalt work is largely finished and streetlight installations are underway. At the Airport Road to Kuje Road project, handled by Arab Contractors, Wike described the work as “fantastic,” noting its potential to improve connectivity and stimulate economic activity in the region.
The Kuje-Gwagwalada road project, executed by Gilmor Engineering Limited, was also inspected. Wike observed that the infrastructure development has significantly transformed the area’s landscape. “You can see how infrastructure has changed the entire landscape of the Kuje area,” he remarked.
Another highlight was the City Gate project, being developed by Julius Berger. Wike described it as a major facelift for Abuja, noting that it was initiated by Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu. “When you have a good woman who means well for the administration of her husband, I’m talking about the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, this is her brainchild,” he said. He praised the contractor for meeting the deadline, with completion expected by the end of May or early June. “Anybody who passes here in the night will see a different city when they are coming in. They will know they are coming to the capital of Nigeria.”
Wike’s inspection tour underscores the administration’s focus on infrastructure and public service delivery, while his endorsement of Chinda signals a strategic move to strengthen APC’s position in Rivers State. The combination of political backing and visible development projects may shape voter perception in both the FCT and Rivers State.
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