Wike To Deliver UNIPORT Convocation Lecture On Leadership, Infrastructure Development

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, is set to deliver the convocation lecture at the 36th Convocation Ceremony of University of Port Harcourt on Saturday, where he will address issues surrounding leadership and infrastructure development in Nigeria.

According to a statement issued on Thursday by the minister’s Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, the lecture will focus on the theme, “Leadership and Infrastructure Development in Nigeria: Lessons for Future Leaders.”

The event is scheduled to take place at the university’s New Convocation Arena in Choba, Rivers State, beginning at 10 a.m.

The invitation extended to Wike was contained in a letter dated April 20, 2026, and signed by the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Owunari A. Georgewill.

In the letter, the university described the former Rivers State governor as a distinguished public servant whose contributions to governance, public administration and infrastructural development have earned him a national recognition.

Georgewill noted that the convocation lecture remains one of the major highlights of the institution’s graduation ceremonies, providing a platform for eminent personalities to engage students and academics on issues critical to national growth and societal advancement.

The vice-chancellor said the university considered Wike’s participation significant because of his leadership experience and longstanding contributions to public service, expressing confidence that his address would inspire graduating students as they prepare for life beyond the university.

“We believe that your presence and voice at this significant academic milestone will not only honour your alma mater but also reinforce the vital connection between leadership, scholarship and national progress,” the letter stated.

The FCT minister subsequently accepted the invitation through a correspondence dated April 23, 2026, signed by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Chidi Amadi.

According to the acceptance letter, Wike selected the lecture topic based on his conviction that leadership should be measured by its impact on citizens through the provision of infrastructure, social services and other essential public amenities.

The minister is expected to draw from his experience in public office to discuss the role of visionary leadership in driving development and nation-building, while offering guidance to the graduating class on the responsibilities of future leaders in Nigeria.

The lecture forms part of activities lined up for the university’s 36th convocation ceremony and is expected to attract members of the academic community, government officials, students, alumni and other stakeholders.