The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barr Nyesom Wike, has been scheduled to deliver the keynote address at the maiden induction ceremony of the Idoma Hall of Fame. The event is set to take place on Thursday, October 15, 2026, at 12 noon at the Peach Vine Event Centre, Wuye, Abuja. Wike will speak on the theme: “People, Politics and Power in Nigeria: The Agitation for Equity, Fairness and Justice.”
Wike was conferred with the Idoma honorary title, “Okokonjo K’Idoma,” by the Och’Idoma, the paramount ruler of the Idoma people, in 2023. He was selected as the keynote speaker due to his vocal position on equity and fairness in the distribution of political power, as well as his advocacy for minority rights. Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, Chief Paul-Harris Ogbole, noted that Wike’s recognition as a Friend of Idoma was also intended to acknowledge his relationship with the Idoma people and his contributions to the community.
The Idoma Hall of Fame is an initiative established to document and preserve the achievements of distinguished Idoma people for future generations. According to the Founder and Executive Director, Engr. Agaba Ikwue, the Hall of Fame is not merely an award platform but an institution created to preserve Idoma history, celebrate excellence and inspire younger generations. The initiative aims to serve as a platform for youth mentorship, gender equity, preservation of Idoma heritage and community engagement.
The maiden induction ceremony will feature the induction of distinguished personalities, including former Senate President, Senator David Mark; Executive Secretary of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund, Arc. Sonny Echono; legendary musician, Dr. Bongos Ikwue; music icon, Innocent “2Baba” Idibia; founder of Dunamis International Gospel Centre, Dr. Paul Enenche; and legal practitioner, Chief Godwin Obla. Other notable individuals expected to be inducted include economist, Prof. Ode Ojowu; former Supreme Court Justice, James Ogenyi Ogebe; and former Head of Service of the Federation, Dr. James Abu Obe.
The Idoma Hall of Fame seeks to build a lasting institution that would outlive its founders and continue to celebrate contributions to the development and identity of the Idoma people. Engr. Agaba Ikwue stressed that the organisers intend to create a platform that would inspire younger generations and preserve the heritage of the Idoma Nation. The initiative is also expected to promote community engagement and youth mentorship.
The keynote speaker, Barr Nyesom Wike, has been a strong advocate for equity and fairness in Nigeria’s political landscape. His address at the Idoma Hall of Fame is expected to shed light on the agitation for equity, fairness, and justice in the country. The event is anticipated to attract prominent figures from various sectors, including politics, entertainment, and education.
The Idoma Hall of Fame has been established to honour the contributions of notable individuals of Idoma origin. With the maiden induction ceremony, the initiative aims to set a precedent for future events that will continue to celebrate excellence and inspire younger generations. The event is expected to be a significant milestone in the promotion of Idoma heritage and community engagement.
Key points
- Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barr Nyesom Wike, to deliver keynote address at the Idoma Hall of Fame.
- The Idoma Hall of Fame aims to document and preserve the achievements of distinguished Idoma people.
- The maiden induction ceremony to feature notable individuals, including Senator David Mark and Dr. Bongos Ikwue.
