Wike Discovered Me,’ Fubara Dedicates Award to FCT Minister

 Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara publicly dedicated his prestigious "Man of the Year" award to his predecessor and former political mentor, Nyesom Wike, the current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The governor made the heartfelt tribute during the New Telegraph Awards and Dinner Night held in Lagos on Friday, February 13, 2026.

Fubara, who has been at the center of a prolonged and often tense political rift with Wike since assuming office in 2023, used his acceptance speech to reflect on the challenges of leadership and the personal cost of navigating Rivers State's turbulent political waters. He explained that his deliberate choice to project an image of restraint—often labeled by critics as "weakness"—was a calculated decision aimed at preserving peace in the state and safeguarding the well-being of its people.

"I choose to be weak because I want peace in my state and to protect the things that are not visible," Fubara said, emphasizing that his approach was driven by a desire to avoid further escalation in the lingering crisis that has divided loyalties within the state and the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He described the strains of governance amid conflict, acknowledging the toll it has taken on those who have supported him through difficult times.

Amid this introspection, the governor turned his attention to Wike, referring to him affectionately as "my Oga" and crediting the former Rivers governor for spotting his potential and propelling him into the limelight. "I do not care how you interpret it or misinterpret it. I also dedicate this award to somebody who discovered me, not minding the situation—the Honourable Minister of FCT, Nyesom Wike," Fubara declared to applause from the audience.

He continued, "He discovered me, and it is the discovery that gave me this loudness. Without him, I wouldn’t be standing here as governor." The remarks underscored Wike's pivotal role in Fubara's political ascent, from his time as a key appointee in Wike's administration—where he served as Accountant-General of Rivers State—to his emergence as the PDP's governorship candidate in 2023, a process heavily influenced by Wike's backing.

The dedication comes at a time when observers have noted tentative signs of reconciliation between the two leaders. Recent interventions by President Bola Tinubu and other high-level figures appear to have contributed to a cooling of tensions, with both men publicly signaling a willingness to move past their differences for the sake of Rivers State's stability and development.

Fubara also used the occasion to express deep gratitude to God, his family, the people of Rivers State, and everyone who has endured the "special pain" of standing by him during the political turbulence. He described the award as more than a personal honor—it represented recognition for collective resilience and the shared struggles of those committed to good governance in a challenging environment.

The New Telegraph Man of the Year award celebrates individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, impact, and integrity in their fields. For Fubara, the recognition highlights his efforts to steer Rivers State through a period marked by legal battles, legislative disputes, and security concerns, all while pushing forward infrastructure projects and economic initiatives aimed at improving citizens' lives.

Political analysts view Fubara's tribute as a strategic olive branch, potentially paving the way for broader healing in Rivers politics. Wike, a formidable figure known for his assertive style and influence within the PDP and national circles, has remained a dominant voice in the state's affairs even after leaving office. His endorsement was instrumental in Fubara's 2023 victory, though subsequent disagreements over control of party structures and governance priorities led to open confrontations.

As Rivers State looks ahead, many hope this public acknowledgment signals a new chapter of collaboration rather than continued division. Fubara's words serve as a reminder of the intricate web of relationships that shape Nigerian politics, where loyalty, mentorship, and pragmatism often intersect in unexpected ways.

The event in Lagos drew prominent figures from media, business, and politics, underscoring the national interest in Rivers State's developments. For now, Fubara's dedication to Wike stands out as a poignant gesture in an ongoing story of power, loyalty, and the quest for peace in one of Nigeria's most resource-rich yet politically volatile states.