By SpringsNewsNG Media Limited
March 18, 2025

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike, has pledged to allocate land in Abuja to the University of Port Harcourt for the establishment of its Centre for Leadership and Political Studies.

Wike made the promise on Monday when the university’s Governing Council, led by its Pro-Chancellor and Chairman, Sen. Mao Ohuabunwa, paid him a courtesy visit in Abuja.

Ohuabunwa requested the minister’s support in setting up the centre, which he said would be modeled after the John F. Kennedy Leadership Center in the United States. He added that “Wikematics Political Ideology” would be included in the curriculum, citing Wike’s political experience and influence.

The Pro-Chancellor also sought Wike’s assistance in establishing a state-of-the-art multimedia centre at the university’s Convocation Arena to mark its 50th anniversary. He recalled that Wike, as Rivers State governor, built the arena and also played a key role in establishing the Faculty of Law during his tenure as Minister of Education.

In response, Wike assured the council of his support for the land allocation but clarified that FCT funds would not be used for the project.

“I cannot take FCT money and give it to you, no, but I will give you land to build your centre,” Wike said.

However, he pledged to support the university with N350 million for the multimedia centre, drawing from his personal funds as well as contributions from his wife and associates.

“Government alone cannot do it. Those of us who graduated from the university, and who God has helped, should also support,” he added.

Wike, who studied political science at the university before becoming a lawyer, encouraged the institution to reach out to other notable alumni, including Anambra State Governor Charles Soludo, for further support.

Earlier, Ohuabunwa congratulated Wike on his appointment as FCT Minister and commended his achievements. He also announced that the university’s 50th anniversary in 2025 would feature a N10 billion endowment fund, with Wike among the distinguished alumni to be honored for his contributions