Suspended Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has congratulated his predecessor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Chief Nyesom Wike, on receiving an honorary Doctor of Science (D.Sc.) Honoris Causa from the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT). 


In a heartfelt message, Fubara praised Wike’s transformative leadership and enduring contributions to education and national development, marking the first public gesture of goodwill between the two leaders since their recent reconciliation.


Fubara, speaking on behalf of his family and the people of Rivers State, described the award as a “well-deserved recognition” of Wike’s illustrious career as a visionary statesman and proud UNIPORT alumnus. 


“This distinguished honor is not only a celebration of your accomplishments but a testament to your impactful leadership that has uplifted countless lives,” Fubara said in a personally signed statement. 


He highlighted Wike’s achievements in governance, particularly in infrastructural development during his tenure as Rivers State governor, and his ongoing service as FCT Minister. 


The conferment, which took place on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at UNIPORT’s convocation ceremony, has been widely celebrated as a fitting tribute to Wike’s contributions to Nigeria’s socio-political landscape. 


Fubara noted that the recognition by Wike’s alma mater underscores his strategic role in shaping the nation’s future and serves as an inspiration for continued excellence in public service. 


The gesture comes weeks after a reconciliation brokered by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which resolved a prolonged political rift between Fubara and Wike. 


The feud had escalated to the point of President Tinubu declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State, leading to the suspension of elected officials, including Fubara. 


The reconciliation was publicly evident when Fubara, Wike, and State Assembly Speaker Martins Amaewhule attended a funeral service together in Rumuepirikom on June 28, 2025.