Idoma contributions to Nigeria must be celebrated – Wike declares at Idoma Hall of Fame

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has called for greater recognition of the contributions of the Idoma people to Nigeria’s development, describing them as an important part of the country’s national heritage.

Wike made the call while delivering a keynote address at the Idoma Hall of Fame event in Abuja, where distinguished Idoma personalities were honoured for their achievements and contributions to society.

He said the Idoma story should not be told merely through grievances, exclusion or demands for recognition, but also through the contributions of its people to the building of Nigeria.

“The Idoma people are part of that story, not merely as claimants to recognition, but as contributors to the national inheritance,” he said.

According to the minister, the Idoma Hall of Fame represents more than an institution for celebrating past achievements, as it also provides an opportunity to establish values and inspire younger generations.

He said the institution would help preserve Idoma heritage and celebrate individuals who had distinguished themselves through service, scholarship, creativity, enterprise, leadership and sacrifice.

Wike urged the organisers to ensure that the people honoured become examples for younger generations, stressing that society must carefully consider the values it promotes.

“When we honour service, courage, scholarship, innovation, integrity, enterprise, cultural preservation, and sacrifice, we send a very different message: true achievement is measured not merely by what one acquires, but by what one contributes,” he said.

The minister also called for a shift from the politics of ethnic identity and the struggle for political positions to a focus on competence, accountability and service delivery.

He argued that political representation alone could not guarantee development, noting that citizens ultimately judge leadership by its impact on their lives.

“Representation matters, but representation cannot be the destination; it must be a pathway to public value and competent service delivery in politics,” he said.

Wike maintained that Nigeria’s diversity should be treated as a resource for national development rather than a source of division, urging political leaders to prioritise the provision of roads, functional schools, healthcare and security over religious or ethnic considerations.

He also challenged aspiring political leaders to demonstrate what they could offer the people, rather than relying on whether they belonged to a majority or minority group.

The event brought together prominent personalities, including Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro, Dr Paul Enenche, former Deputy Governor of Benue State Sam Ode, and other distinguished guests.

The Idoma Hall of Fame seeks to preserve the history and heritage of the Idoma people while recognising individuals whose achievements and service have made significant contributions to society.