Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike is one of the most formidable figures in Nigeria's political landscape.

Born on this day in 1967, the former Rivers State Governor began his political journey as a two-term Executive Chairman of Obio Akpor Local Government Area from 1999 to 2007.

He quickly rose through the ranks and was appointed Minister of State for Education on July 14, 2011, by the President Goodluck Jonathan administration.

He is considered one of the most controversial figures in Nigeria's politics and has been blamed for the downfall of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

His rift with the party led to him joining the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Below are some facts about Wike as he turns 57 years old:

1) Nyesom Wike and his wife, Eberechi Wike, are both lawyers.

2) He is one of the few politicians who have served as a local government chairman, governor, minister of state, and minister.

3) He is also one of the few politicians who have served as cabinet ministers for an opposition party.

4) He was educated at Rivers State University of Science and Technology.

5) He has declared his intention to run for president in 2022.

6) He has three children.