In an exclusive interview with Charles Aniagolu, former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi shared insights on his political journey, achievements, and concerns about the current state of governance and political character in Nigeria.
Amaechi recalled his rise to prominence, emphasizing the importance of seizing and utilising opportunities. “It’s not because I am the best, I had the opportunity and I utilised it,” he said, referring to his tenure as Speaker of the Parliament. He credited late Dr. Peter Odili for supporting his appointment as Speaker and expressed pride in his performance, describing himself as “one of the best Speakers this country had produced at that material time.” He also noted his election as Chairman of the Speakers Forum, questioning if the forum still exists today.
Reflecting on his governorship, Amaechi attributed his rise to the grace of God, Dr. Odili, the people of Rivers State, and the judiciary, which officially pronounced him Governor. When asked about his performance in office, he confidently stated, “Of course I did.”
Amaechi highlighted several infrastructure projects completed during his administration, including six flyovers in Rivers State built without fanfare or presidential commissioning ceremonies. He also pointed to the establishment of primary and secondary schools—some of which were managed with assistance from an Indian agency that provided science teachers, while art teachers came from Nigeria. Unfortunately, he lamented the current state of these schools, describing them as abandoned and vandalised.
The former governor expressed deep sadness over the neglect of other key projects such as a planned new city and 24-hour power supply, which were also abandoned and vandalised. “That’s why I don’t go to Rivers State because it gives you mental disorder,” he said.
Amaechi also discussed his ministerial accomplishments, including initiating and completing the Lagos-Ibadan railway and the Lekki Deep Sea Port. He spoke about infrastructure projects in Kano State, such as an Inland Dry Port with associated educational facilities, and the ongoing construction of roads linking Kano-Kaduna and Kano-Maradi, alongside completing the Kaduna-Abuja road started by former President Goodluck Jonathan.
On political maturity and character, Amaechi shared a personal anecdote about advice from his second son. He lamented that many current politicians no longer care about their names or reputations, risking the shame of their children. “If I do something that rubs off on the name Amaechi, it affects all of us,” he said, underscoring the collective responsibility that comes with public service and family legacy.
Amaechi’s reflections offer a candid perspective on his legacy, governance achievements, and the moral challenges facing Nigeria’s political class today.
