Port harcourt: The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike, has outlined his contributions to the development of the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT), Rivers State University, and the legal profession. During UNIPORT's 35th Combined Convocation and 50th Anniversary, Wike emphasized the pivotal role the university played in shaping his socio-economic and political journey.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Wike expressed gratitude for the intellectual foundation provided by UNIPORT, which he credits for his success. He called on alumni to contribute back to the institution as a token of gratitude. He highlighted his continuous support to the university, stating his actions were driven by commitment rather than convenience.
As Minister of State for Education, Wike established and equipped the Faculty of Law at UNIPORT. He also facilitated the separation of the Faculty of Social Science from the Faculty of Humanities by constructing a dedicated building for it. Addressing the university's need for a convocation arena, Wike, during his tenure as governor of Rivers, built one to international standards. Similar initiatives were undertaken at Rivers State University, where he studied law.
Wike's contributions extended to constructing the Post-Graduate Hostel when he served as Chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area. He further raised N500 million through the Tertiary Education Trust Fund to support university development. As governor, he completed infrastructural projects for various faculties and built new facilities, including the Senate building and National Union of Rivers State Students' building.
In the legal domain, Wike contributed by constructing the Rivers branch of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and supporting the NBA's National Secretariat. He introduced a judicial welfare scheme in Rivers, ensuring judges owned homes with modern amenities upon retirement and provided them with new vehicles.
He also constructed the Body of Benchers building in Abuja and developed facilities for the Law School in Yenagoa, Bayelsa. As Minister of the FCT, he is currently building an annex for the Body of Benchers and developing residential houses for judges across various courts.
Wike emphasized that his contributions were not for personal acclaim but to inspire others to serve and develop their alma mater. He urged UNIPORT alumni to reflect on their contributions to the institution that laid the foundation for their success.