Wike confident of mass turnout as Rivers prepares for Tinubu’s visit Saturday

By Stanley Onyekwere

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has expressed strong confidence that Rivers State residents will turn out in large numbers to welcome President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, anticipating an attendance of over 70,000 supporters at the 40,000-capacity Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium, in Port Harcourt.

Speaking with journalists after inspecting the venue ahead of the President’s scheduled Saturday visit, Wike emphasized that public enthusiasm across the state is exceptionally high.

“Rivers people are very enthusiastic to receive him tomorrow, and that’s why we’ve come here to see… you can attest to the fact that several avenues and streets have gone by in terms of preparation, in terms of the decorations,” Wike stated.

Highlighting the scope of the reception, Wike noted that while smaller venues such as the Yakubu Gowon Stadium accommodate roughly 16,000 people, the primary 40,000-capacity Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium was chosen to handle the heavy crowd.

Despite the stadium’s fixed seating limit, organizers project an overall turnout exceeding 70,000 attendees, with overflow areas prepared to accommodate additional supporters.

Ahead of the event, the coordinator of the Rivers State Rainbow Coalition,Ambassador Desmond Akawor, led a roadshow across major roads within and outside the state capital.

The rally, which terminated at the stadium, aimed to sensitize and mobilize the public for the President’s arrival.

Addressing questions regarding past political events where venue capacities were not met, Wike dismissed doubts about reaching the expected numbers.

“It’s not about how certain. I’ve told you that Rivers men and women are enthusiastic to receive Mr. President, and I can tell you I’m very confident, very confident,” Wike asserted, adding that security and logistical arrangements are fully in place for a smooth event.

He noted that Saturday’s visit marks President Tinubu’s official return to Rivers State in his capacity as President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.