Abuja: Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike, celebrated the nominations of Sen. Magnus Abe as Board Chairman of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) and Mr. Kenneth Kobani as a non-executive member of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) by President Bola Tinubu.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Wike expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for these appointments during his ‘thank you’ visit to Ogu-Bolo Local Government Area in Rivers State. Sen. Abe, who has a history of representing Rivers South East in the Senate for two terms, is also a former NNPC board member and currently serves as Chairman of the National Agency of the Great Green Wall. Mr. Kobani previously held the position of Minister of State for Trade under President Goodluck Jonathan and was Secretary to the Rivers Government under Wike.
Wike commented that these nominations reflect President Tinubu’s appreciation for the people of Rivers, stating that the state has never received this level of recognition since its inception. He highlighted that the appointments of Abe and Kobani are part of an unprecedented number of positions awarded to individuals from Rivers under the current administration.
The minister emphasized, “This shows that Mr. President keeps his promises and keeps his agreement. We are standing by the truth and the truth will set us free.” He urged the people of Rivers to maintain their support for President Tinubu, especially as he seeks reelection in 2027.
Earlier, Mr. Vincent Nemieoboka, Chairman of Ogu/Bolo Local Government Area, praised Wike as a driving force for development in the region. Nemieoboka expressed gratitude for Wike’s efforts in securing various appointments for local residents at both federal and state levels, promising the minister political support in the upcoming years.
Similarly, Amb. Mourine Tamumo, General Managing Director of Abuja Investment Company Ltd., also from the area, expressed her appreciation to Wike for the opportunities provided to the community’s sons and daughters. She assured the minister of continued backing from the people, including women and youth, reinforcing their commitment to supporting his initiatives.