The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has pledged to allocate land in Abuja to the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) for the establishment of its Centre for Leadership and Political Studies.
Wike made the commitment on Monday while hosting the university’s Governing Council, led by Sen. Mao Ohuabunwa, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Council, at his office in Abuja.
A Leadership Hub Inspired by JFK Center
The proposed centre, modeled after the John F. Kennedy Leadership Center in the United States, aims to promote political and leadership studies in Nigeria. According to Ohuabunwa, the centre will feature courses on “Wikematics Political Ideology”, a study of Wike’s political trajectory and governance approach.
Support for UNIPORT’s 50th Anniversary Multimedia Centre
The Governing Council also requested Wike’s assistance in establishing a state-of-the-art multimedia centre at the university’s Convocation Arena, as part of activities to mark UNIPORT’s upcoming 50th-anniversary celebration in 2025.
Ohuabunwa recalled that Wike, as former Rivers State Governor and ex-Minister of Education, played a pivotal role in UNIPORT’s development by constructing the Convocation Arena and establishing the Faculty of Law.
Wike’s Financial Commitment and Alumni Call to Action
While confirming the land allocation for the leadership centre, Wike emphasized that FCT funds would not be used for its construction. However, he personally pledged N350 million toward building the multimedia centre, with contributions from his wife and close associates.
“Government alone cannot do it. Those of us who graduated from the university and have been blessed should also give back. I cannot take FCT money and give it to you, but I will allocate land for the leadership centre. My wife, my friends, and I will personally provide the N350 million needed for the multimedia centre,” Wike stated.
The minister also urged other notable UNIPORT alumni, including Anambra State Governor, Prof. Charles Soludo, to support the university’s projects.
UNIPORT’s N10 Billion Endowment Fund
Earlier, Ohuabunwa commended Wike’s leadership and congratulated him on his appointment as FCT Minister. He announced that UNIPORT would launch a N10 billion endowment fund as part of its golden jubilee celebrations.
Wike is expected to be honored among distinguished alumni for his significant contributions to the university’s growth.