President Tinubu hosted a closed-door meeting with Minister Nyesom Wike, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, and Ogoni leaders at the Presidential Villa. The meeting, marked by smiles between Wike and Fubara amid their political rift, focused on Niger Delta cleanup demands and fostering unity. High-profile officials attended the crucial discussions.
President Bola Tinubu held a pivotal meeting at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, with Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, and a delegation of Ogoni leaders. The gathering aimed to address pressing concerns in the Niger Delta region, including environmental restoration and economic development.
Photos from the event, shared by presidential aide Olusegun Dada, captured a surprising moment of camaraderie between Wike and Fubara, who were seen smiling warmly despite their ongoing political disagreements. This rare display of unity has sparked speculation about potential reconciliation between the two leaders, once allies but now engaged in a well-publicized rift.
High-ranking officials, including the Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, and NNPCL’s CEO Mele Kyari, were also present. The discussions reportedly touched on the demands of civil society groups, including a $1 trillion allocation for the Niger Delta cleanup and compensation for livelihoods lost due to environmental damage.
The smiles exchanged between Wike and Fubara have drawn significant attention, with many viewing it as a positive step toward collaboration on both Ogoni-specific and broader state issues. While the details of the closed-door discussions remain undisclosed, the meeting underscores the Federal Government's commitment to fostering unity and addressing critical regional challenges.