posted 4th June 2025
Rotimi Amaechi Details Infrastructure Achievements and Wike Relationship on Arise TV
4 June 2025
Former Nigerian Transport Minister Rotimi Amaechi appeared on Arise TV’s Prime Time programme on Tuesday, 3 June 2025, where he discussed his infrastructure achievements, political history, and his complex relationship with Nyesom Wike, the current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.
Amaechi emphasised his track record in delivering major infrastructure projects. “The thing with me is, don’t give me an assignment, I will deliver,” he stated. He listed several completed projects under his leadership, including the Lagos-Ibadan railway, the Lekki Deep Seaport, an inland dry port in Kano, and the Kaduna-Abuja railway. He also noted that he initiated the Kano-Kaduna railway, which remains a significant step toward improving Nigeria’s transport network. These projects, Amaechi argued, demonstrate his commitment to advancing the country’s infrastructure.
Amaechi addressed his past political alliance with Wike, who served under him during his tenure as Governor of Rivers State (2007–2015). “I was once Wike’s boss, whether he likes it or not. I hired him; I could have said no,” Amaechi said, referring to his role in elevating Wike’s political career. He explained that when considering Wike for a gubernatorial role in 2015, he opted against it, citing regional balance, as both he and Wike hail from the Ikwerre ethnic group and the upland region of Rivers State. Instead, Amaechi sent Wike to Abuja to serve as a minister.
“I wanted him as chief of staff so I could supervise him. I didn’t offer him commissioner for finance,” Amaechi clarified, distancing himself from claims that he had offered Wike other high-ranking roles. He added, “I’m saying this because I don’t want to join issues with children,” suggesting a strained dynamic and a desire to avoid further public disputes with Wike.
The relationship has been a point of contention, with media personality Reuben Abati recently describing Wike as “rude” and Amaechi as Wike’s political “boss.” However, Wike’s aide, Lere Olayinka, countered that Wike played a crucial role in helping Amaechi secure his gubernatorial mandate in 2007, challenging the narrative of Amaechi’s dominance. Despite their past collaboration, the two have become political rivals, with Amaechi’s comments reflecting lingering tensions.
Amaechi also touched on his political stance, reiterating his independence and willingness to challenge the status quo. He referenced a prior statement from an event celebrating his 60th birthday, where he suggested that opposition parties could unite to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 elections. Amaechi recounted telling Tinubu before the 2023 election that he would neither work for nor vote for him, citing concerns over “capacity.” He criticised voting patterns driven by ethnic or religious motives, arguing that such practices undermine competent leadership.
Amaechi’s remarks have sparked varied reactions. Some viewers praised his infrastructure legacy and forthrightness, while others, particularly Wike’s supporters, accused him of downplaying Wike’s contributions to his political success. Posts on X reflected the polarised sentiment, with some users claiming Amaechi was “destroying” Wike on air, while others saw his comments as an attempt to reassert relevance. Critics also referenced Amaechi’s tenure under former President Muhammadu Buhari, accusing him of hypocrisy for not challenging Buhari’s administration despite later critiquing Tinubu.
Amaechi’s appearance underscores his enduring influence in Nigerian politics, even as he navigates controversies and rivalries. His infrastructure achievements remain a cornerstone of his legacy, while his comments on Wike reveal a fraught relationship shaped by past alliances and present divergences.
