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  • We inherited N225.279bn project debts, says Fubara

    We inherited N225.279bn project debts, says Fubara

    Rivers state governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has disclosed that his administration inherited 34 uncompleted projects, valued at over N225.279bn across 13 local government areas of the state.

    The governor further said that under his administration awarded nine new road projects, valued at N534.332bn.

    He described the ongoing political crisis in the state as a vicious war against his administration but said the worst was over.

    The governor said his administration had successfully defended the rights and privileges to govern the state and advanced its progress in liberty and freedom without compromise.

    Fubara spoke while presenting an Account of Stewardship and Scorecard to mark the first anniversary of his administration at Dr. Obi Wali International Conference Centre in Port Harcourt on Wednesday.

    The governor said: “We started this journey with a bang. We were focused. We were determined to make the change we promised with a sense of urgency.

    “But then, somehow, we suddenly found ourselves in the cesspit of crisis barely three months into our tenure. It was not just an ordinary political crisis. It was a vicious existential crisis.

    “But thank goodness, the worst is over. We have successfully defended our rights and opportunity to govern our State and advance its progress in freedom, and we will continue to prevail.”

    Fubara said many things had changed in the political landscape, noting that he remained committed to his covenant to put Rivers State first, defend her interest, and ensure that the people got the dividends of democracy and good governance.

    He said: “For us, any government worth its name must be accountable, responsive, and responsible for the security and well-being of the people.

    “Having managed the affairs of our State for one year, including dispensing public resources, it is only proper that we render account with a public presentation of our performance record.

    “I am, therefore, pleased to stand before you to present our Scorecard for the first year we have been in office as the Executive arm of the Government of Rivers State.”

     Fubara recalled his promise to deliver on the core priorities of economic growth, infrastructure, healthcare, education, and agriculture, contained in his blueprint expressing his determination to build a virile, resilient, and progressive state that catered to the needs of the people.

    The governor said he was proud to report that, despite the unprecedented challenges, his first one year in office had witnessed significant achievements visible to everybody.

    Fubara particularly said that he inherited a state, whose economy was on a declining trajectory despite its growth potential, but within one year of his administration, the negative narrative had changed for the better.

    The governor said he set up an Internally Generated Revenue (IGR)/Investment Advisory Committee that he chaired to coordinate activities in the sector leading to increased inflow of economic investments to the state.

    He said: “We also needed to attract investments into the State and increase our internally generated revenue base as too much reliance on federal allocations was a challenge to the realisation of our development goals.

    “We, therefore, set up an IGR/Investment Advisory Committee, which is helping us to navigate our course for increased economic investments and internally generated revenue to accelerate economic growth, create jobs and advance the welfare and well-being of our people.

     “Our liberalised business-friendly economic policies and programmes are boosting confidence and attracting local and international investors and investments into the State, judging by the expression of interest offers we receive every month.

    “We have kept our taxes low, frozen the imposing of taxes on small businesses across the State, and increased the ease of doing business in the State by eliminating bureaucratic bottlenecks. No request for the signing of a certificate of occupancy remains in my office beyond two days, except if I am otherwise engaged beyond two days or out of town.

    “One year down the line, and we believe we are succeeding. Our internally generated revenue witnessed an astronomical increase from N12 billion to between N17 billion in off-peak periods and N28 billion during the peak months.

    “We have established an N4 billion matching fund with the Bank of Industry (BOI) to support existing and new micro, small, and medium-sized businesses (MSMEs) to grow their businesses to drive economic growth and create jobs and wealth for citizens. Over 3,000 citizens and residents have applied to access this loan to fund their businesses at a single-digit interest rate, and a repayment period of up to five years.”

    The governor expressed his belief in using infrastructure as key to sustainable development, saying he did not abandon the 34 uncompleted projects that he inherited, valued at over N225.279bn.

    The governor also said that 12 of those projects had been completed and put to use while construction work was ongoing on the others.

     Fubara said that except for the Port Harcourt Ring Road project that was funded with the loan, other ambitious projects of his administration such as the Elele-Egbeda-Omoku Road, Okania-Ogbogoro Road, and the Trans-Kalabari Road were funded from accumulated IGR and federal allocations savings.

    He said: “I wish to emphasize that with a combined cost of N528.6billion, the 50.15 kilometres Port Harcourt dual-carriage Ring Road, the dualisation of Elele-Egbeda-Omoku Road and the Trans-Kalabari Road projects are the three most ambitious road projects ever carried out by any Governor in Rivers state.

    “The 50.15 kilometres Port Harcourt Dual Carriage Ring Road, with six flyovers, one river crossing, walkways, drains, streetlights, and spanning six local government areas, was awarded to Julius Berger Nigeria Plc at a total cost of N195.3billion for a 36-month completion period.

    “The speed with which the project is advancing shows that this administration is in a hurry to deliver this project even before the due date with the 77 percent down payment of N150billion to the contractor. Presently, work on the project is progressing satisfactorily from six different locations.

    “The 33.5-kilometre Elele-Egbeda-Omoku Road was awarded on the 26th of March, 2024 at a total cost of N80.886billion to Craneburge Construction Company with a down payment of 50 percent of the contract sum and 24-month completion timeline. The contractor has since commenced work on this project.”

    Fubara said in the health sector the Rivers State Emergency Ambulance Service had been resuscitated; facilities were upgraded at the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital, 1,000 medical personnel were employed, and 35 primary healthcare centres were empowered to function maximally.

    The governor assured that his administration was committed to economic diversification through agriculture, stressing that efforts are at top gear to attract serious investors to take over and revive all state-owned farms and agricultural assets.

    He said: “In addition, we have concluded plans to engage our youths in profitable agriculture, and applied to participate in the second phase of the Special Agro-processing Zones project of the African Development Bank, and all other agriculture development schemes of the Federal Government.”

    In the education sector, Fubara explained that he inherited many uncompleted secondary schools’ reconstruction and other projects.

     Fubara said: “On assumption of office, we quickly released funds to complete these schools and deliver them for public use.

    “We released N1,902,334,833.33 as matching funds for the Universal Basic Education Board for the provision of infrastructure, including the rehabilitation of basic education schools. 

    “It is noteworthy that the State’s Universal Basic Education Board has used funds released to rehabilitate over 50 basic education schools across the State”

    Fubara said the payment of salary to civil servants had been sustained, adding that an engineering firm was engaged to do a structural assessment of what could be done to give the Rivers State Secretariat Complex a facelift.

    Speaking at the event as the Chairman of the occasion, former representative of Rivers East Senatorial District at the National Assembly, Senator John Azuta Mbata, said the essence of democracy was for leaders to serve the people, be responsible to them, and work to improve their well-being.

    Senator Mbata said Fubara had distinguished himself as a servant-leader whose one year in office was momentous, full of enormous accomplishments, and had such audacity to embark on an unusual phenomenon of reporting back to the people on how he had served them.

    The chairman emphasised that Governor Fubara, by conducting himself as answerable to the people, had set a record difficult to match for upholding accountability and democracy, sustaining public trust, and fostering good governance.

    He said: “So, we are glad that such an occasion has presented itself in this State, where our servant-leader is before the people to give account and show his scorecard. I congratulate you most heartily for this great achievement.

    “Popular sovereignty principle connotes the fact that power belongs to the people. It is the people that leaders are called upon to serve. The people play the role of choosing their leaders through regular and periodic elections, and also the people have the mandate to renew or refuse to renew the mandate periodically.

    “It is accountability that ensures responsibility and transparent exercise of power in the public interest. Accountability provides the opportunity for the players to explain and account for their performance in office. I am proud that His Excellency has chosen the path of transparency and accountability as Governor of Rivers State,” he said.

    Read Also: Fubara’s wife seeks crackdown on child labour, trafficking

    In his welcome address, Secretary to the Rivers State Government (SSG), Dr Tammy Danagogo, described Governor Fubara as an eagle leader.

    He said: “Over the past one year, what has been going on in Rivers State is what I will call a quiet and noiseless revolution. His Excellency has been working very assiduously, performing very excellently, and without noise, daring and achieving what is seemingly impossible.

    “Most of you know, like I said the other day, projects like the Trans-Kalabari Road, only the government of Dr Peter Odili was able to award the original Trans-Kalabari Road and after that, nobody has dared to do it. But, His Excellency has awarded it and that project has commenced.

    “So, you can see, without equivocation, that indeed, Rivers State is witnessing a noiseless revolution. And you can see that without making noise, His Excellency is completing most of the uncompleted or abandoned projects, and initiating new crucial ones across the State.

    “Today marks exactly one year since the people’s Governor was sworn into office. And in his characteristic quest for transparency and accountability, he has asked us to hold this forum so that he can give you, the good people of Rivers State who graciously voted him into office, a vivid account of his stewardship.”

  • Civil society groups laud Fubara’s policies

    Civil society groups laud Fubara’s policies

    The Civil Society Situation Room on Matters of Governance in Nigeria has commended Rivers Governor Governor Siminalayi Fubara for what it described as its outstanding commitment to people-oriented reforms, policies and programmes.

    In its one-year assessment report, the group praised Governor Fubara for his dedication to improving Rivers residents, citing numerous achievements in critical areas such as infrastructure development, healthcare, education, and economic empowerment.

    Speaking at a briefing on Tuesday, Hon. Igwe Ude-Umanta said despite inheriting a plethora of challenges, the Governor has displayed visionary leadership, innovative thinking, and a resolute determination to transform the state into a hub of economic growth, social progress, and political stability.

    The group highlighted several initiatives, including the establishment of a participatory budgeting process, support for small-scale entrepreneurs, and investments in sustainable development projects, as examples of Governor Fubara’s people-oriented reforms.

    “In stark contrast to the deleterious impact of previous administrations in Rivers State, the administration of Governor Similaya Fubara has ushered in a new era of hope and renewal, Ushering in a transformative paradigm shift in the state’s governance landscape,” Ude-Umanta said. 

    “Within a remarkably brief span of just one year, Governor Fubara has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the principles of good governance, transparency, and accountability, thereby setting a new standard for administrative excellence.

    “His administration has prioritized a multifaceted agenda, tackling critical sectors such as security, education, healthcare, infrastructure development, and youth empowerment, thereby addressing the long-standing needs and aspirations of the citizenry. 

    “Furthermore, the state’s revenue generation and utilization have been rendered transparent, ensuring accountability and judicious management of public resources. Additionally, local government autonomy has been restored, empowering local authorities to address the specific needs and concerns of their respective communities, thereby fostering grassroots development and inclusivity.

    Read Also: Fubara’s wife seeks crackdown on child labour, trafficking

    “Our comprehensive evaluation of Governor Fubara’s performance reveals that he is steadfastly on course, having made remarkable strides in tackling the complex governance challenges that have long beset Rivers State. It is abundantly clear that Governor Similaya Fubara is not only on track but also excelling in the face of formidable obstacles, and as such, the Civil Society Situation Room on Matters of Governance in Nigeria acknowledges and applauds the profoundly positive impact of his visionary leadership. 

    “We eagerly anticipate continued progress and development under his administration, as his dedication to excellence and good governance continues to inspire hope and transformation in Rivers State. Governor Fubara’s achievements in his first year are a testament to his visionary leadership and commitment to the people of Rivers State. 

    “We, the Civil Society Situation Room on Matters of Governance in Nigeria, commend him for his exceptional performance and encourage him to continue on this trajectory of excellence. The Fubara era is indeed a new dawn for Rivers State, and we are confident that the future holds even greater promise.

    “Notwithstanding that, he inherited a state beset by myriad challenges and in utter disarray, Governor Fubara has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the principles of good governance, transparency, and accountability, thereby setting a new standard for administrative excellence. His impressive achievements in various critical sectors, including security, education, agriculture, youth empowerment, infrastructure development, and healthcare, serve as a resounding testament to his visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to the betterment of Rivers State.

    “The remarkable success achieved in service and project delivery within his first year in office is a stark contrast to the lacklustre performance of some previous administrations, which failed to make a meaningful impact despite having eight years to do so. We, the Civil Society Situation Room on Matters of Governance in Nigeria, hereby commend Governor Fubara for his exceptional performance and encourage him to persist in his pursuit of excellence, as his efforts have ushered in a new era of hope and renewal for Rivers State. The Fubara era indeed marks a new dawn for the state, and we are confident that the future holds even greater promise, as his administration continues to work tirelessly towards a brighter future for all citizens.”

  • Fubara’s wife seeks crackdown on child labour, trafficking

    Fubara’s wife seeks crackdown on child labour, trafficking

    The wife of the Rivers state governor, Lady Valerie Fubara, has called for a total crackdown on practices promoting child labour and trafficking.

    Mrs. Fubara insisted that the most enduring legacy remained investment in children to harness their full potential for self-development and positive impact on the larger society.

    While speaking at the party organised for children in the State at Government House, Port Harcourt, Mrs. Fubara denounced child labour and trafficking, describing it as inimical and hampering the healthy growth and wellbeing of children.

    She said: “It is apparent that more efforts still need to be made to continue tackling issues related to our children’s growth and well-being, especially in the area of child labour and trafficking, which are endemic in our society today.

    “I call on relevant government agencies to step up the campaign against such evil practices and ensure the safety of our children as they remain the hope of our nation and the potential leaders of tomorrow.

    “I urge parents not to be unduly pressured, either by the temporary economic challenges or by societal influences, to engage in such inhuman practice of child labour or trafficking. It is not only an evil against humanity, but also a sin against God”.

    She added: “Several policy initiatives are being taken to rebrand and reposition the educational sector, by strengthening the operations and promoting the emergence of SMART Schools through the remodelling of infrastructure and upgrading of learning equipment.

    Read Also: God destined Fubara to govern Rivers, Odili tells critics

    “I am aware that this administration has taken up examination fees for school children and further purchased books and instructional materials to deepen teaching and improve learning.

    “We are truly grateful to His Excellency, the Governor, for always thinking ahead to cater for our children. This clearly demonstrates our determined efforts at building the future we definitely want to see, if we want a tomorrow with great men and women.”

    Lady Fubara stated the need for sustained but deliberate efforts in planning for the future with greater investment made that will manifest in the well-being of children.

    She recalled the recent gesture of the wife of Nigeria’s President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who, with the ‘Renewed Hope Initiative’, allowed her office to coordinate the donation of 50,000 exercise books to public schools in Rivers state.

    She said: “This effort was to ensure that our children do not lack the basic materials required of them to engage in the learning process.

    “Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, we are here to celebrate our children, and we must continue to pray for them and to guide them according to the dictates of God Almighty, who gave them to us to look after.”

    Mrs. Fubara applauded the theme of this year’s celebration: “Investing in the Future Means Investing in our Children,” saying such investment transcended the individuals and would have ripple effects on the larger society.

    She said: “Today, when we’re gathered to celebrate Children’s Day, we are reminded of the invaluable treasure we hold in our hands, the promise of our future, embodied in their innocence, curiosity and boundless potential of our children, the theme of this year’s celebration: ‘investing in the future means investing in our children’ underscores our responsibility towards generations to come.

    “These responsibilities involve nurturing, guiding and inspiring our children to be architects of a brighter future.”

    She further explained that investing in children involved creating an enabling environment that fostered their holistic development, intellectually, socially, emotionally and ethically.

    She said: “Investment in our children is about instituting in them the values of compassion, empathy and responsibility for diversity, laying the foundation of a society built on inclusivity and understanding, instilling in them the skills of knowledge and understanding to navigate an ever-changing world.”

  • God destined Fubara to govern Rivers, Odili tells critics

    God destined Fubara to govern Rivers, Odili tells critics

    A former Rivers State Governor, Dr. Peter Odili, has said it was God that destined Sir Siminalayi Fubara to become the governor of the state.

    Addressing the governor while inaugurating the dualised Omoku-Egbema Road constructed by the Fubara administration, Odili said: “Your Excellency, the man God destined to govern Rivers State; a humble man of God and a man whose life reflects the fear of God; a man who doesn’t talk too much but does a lot.”

    Odili said Fubara had taken full control of governance in Rivers State and was focused on the people in line with his chosen mantra, People First.

    Odili thanked Fubara for the project delivered in the area and urged him to remain focused on the people by giving succour to the less-privileged and hope to the hopeless.

    He said: “I can tell our people that the next election is very far, but what the Governor has done so far is enough to secure the support of Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area going forward.

    “Thank you, Your Excellency, because the greatest assets of the state remain the people, not oil and gas. The people remain the greatest assets.

    “So, once your focus remains with the people, especially the less-privileged, the poor, those who are struggling to feed every day, once they remain your focus, I want to agree with you that the sky would become the take-off point of your administration.”

    Odili assured that the entire people of Rivers were behind Fubara, “rallying support for him because they trust him, believing in what he says and convinced that he means whatever he says.”

    Speaking at the occasion, Fubara said that the delivery of developmental projects and social services by his administration would not be politicised because they were geared towards solving the needs faced by the people of the state.

    The governor explained that while all human and societal challenges could not be solved at once, every promise made by his administration would be fulfilled within available resources and delivered on schedule.

    Read Also: We won’t waste our energy fighting detractors, says Fubara

    The governor said: “When the project was added to the list of projects to mark our one year in office, there was a challenge but the contractor assured of delivering it, which is a reality today.

    “What are we doing today? We are here to tell our people that they are the most important thing to us. We are here to assure you that every part of this state will have positive impact of our administration.

    “We can make bold to say that today, a project that was impossible in the past was made possible by this administration.

    “If within this short period we could deliver this to our people who were yearning for this road, crying and complaining, it is a sign that this government has the interest of the people of Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area at heart.

    “So, I want to assure you: don’t let anybody deceive you anywhere. This is the right boat to join. The captain of this boat, his own mantra is ‘The People First’. So, I assure you, with your support, the sky is our beginning.”

    Fubara said it would be improper for him not to appreciate the people of ONELGA because the campaigns that led to his election started in the area.

    Granting some of their requests, Fubara said: “Here and now, we are mandating the Ministry of Works to ensure that the remaining part of this road project leading to the boundary with Imo State should be completed (Okwuizi boundary to Abacheke).

    “We are also assuring you that the health centre matter, more especially the zonal hospital, we are going to complete it. The contractor will move to site in the next one week.

    “So, let me use this opportunity, on behalf of the government and the good people of our dear state, to say thank you for supporting us before, during and also after the election.

    “Let me assure you that whatever we say, we will live up to it. We will not make promises that we will not keep.

    “We will make promises after checking our resources. We will make promises that are within our capacity to deliver, and delivering it in good time.”

    The governor explained that he invited Odili to inaugurate the project because the former governor understood the needs of the people.

    He said: “This is not politics. This is giving back to our people. So, I want somebody who understands the needs of our people, and what we are doing is to come and speak to our people.

    “I want somebody who has the direct interest of this LGA at heart to come and speak to his people, so that we will understand that when we are in position, what is important is not self, what is important is the people.”

    Providing the description of the road, Permanent Secretary, Rivers State Ministry of Works, Atemea Briggs, said the road project indicated how Fubara had consistently prioritised the needs of the people and solve critical problems.

    In his welcome address, High Chief Shedrack Akalokwu, noted that Fubara was soft spoken, his leadership was action-packed, with successes that far outweighed public expectations of his administration.

    He said:  “We are grateful that in the short period of less than one year in office, Your Excellency is here today to superintend over the commissioning of the Omoku-Egbema Dual Carriageway in our local government area.

    “The Erema junction-Akabuka- Ogbogu-Obite-Ede-Okposi dual carriageway speedily being executed by the construction giant, Julius Berger, is very refreshing. The news of the award of 33.5km Elele-Omudioga-Egbeda-Ubimini-Ikiri-Omoku dual carriageway has been received with gladsome mind.

    “That project is magic infrastructural access that would gladden the hearts of our people as there would be drastic reduction of time and distance from our local government to the state capital.

    “All our people are in one accord in conveying our support, solidarity, gratitude and total loyalty to this government of which we are an integral part.”

  • We won’t waste our energy fighting detractors, says Fubara

    We won’t waste our energy fighting detractors, says Fubara

    Rivers state governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has said that his administration and supporters will not dissipate their energy fighting with their detractors.

    He said they would rather work to set a higher standard of leadership and a new bar to improve the quality of life and socio-economic status of Rivers people.

    Fubara said his detractors were making determined overtures to distract his administration from achieving set goals with unproductive fights but vowed that he would not waste his energy fighting back.

    The governor said he would continue to channel every energy into delivering good governance, implementing people-centric policies, executing sustainable impact projects and ensuring that dividends of democracy were constantly delivered to the people.

    He spoke when he officially kicked off the Okania-Ogbogoro Road project in Obio/Akpor local government Area on Friday, May 24.

    Fubara said: “I have only one request, that request is to ask you to continue to conduct yourselves peacefully in the face of all the assaults. They want us to miss our goal, they want to distract us.

    “If we fight with them, we will be wasting our energy. So, what we need to do is to continue to do that thing which we have promised our people.

    “Our style will be to set a standard that will be above them so that when they come, they will see what we are doing. Everybody will be seeing it that it is about the people, and they will say ‘but they are working for the people’. So, that will be our style of leadership.”

    Fubara said that the Okania-Ogbogoro road project would not end at the stage of kick off but would be completed and inaugurated in the next five months.

    He called on members of the benefitting communities and their leaders to give the contractor the necessary support to deliver the project within schedule.

    He said: “At the end of the day, the project belongs to you. It is a project that brings about a better and more conducive environment for you and your children.

    Read Also: JUST IN: Fubara hails Sanusi’s reinstatement as 14th Kano Emir

    “On the part of the contractor: support constituted authority. Dialogue with the leaders of this area so that your work will also go on smoothly.

     “I know a lot of people are wondering why did we decided to think of this particular road now.

    “We are already embarking on a very big project in this state, which is the Port Harcourt Ring Road, and a lot of our people are suffering because of the ongoing construction work on the Ring Road. There is pressure on the direct access areas used by the people.

    “Most of these roads, this one in particular, is a road that will take off some pressure from the main route that we are familiar with, and we thought it wise that it will be proper for us to fix this road at this time”.

    The governor added: “Fixing this road will improve the economy of the people living here. It will also improve the security status of this environment. So, we are thinking, not just for ourselves, but also thinking for the good and wonderful people of our State.

    “So, I want to say: support us so that we will continue to deliver on our promises. I want to say: stand with us, we will not fail you.

    “I want to also thank you, the Akpor people, for your support before, during, and after our election. It’s an opportunity for me to return that thank to you, and what we are doing today is to tell you that we appreciate your support.”

    Fubara commended the Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Rivers State Chapter, and leader of Simplified Movement in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Amb. Chijioke Ihunwo, for his doggedness, courage, and steadfastness in his support for the administration.

    He said: “Let me say it here: any request that is genuine, coming from Chijioke Ihunwo, I will not turn it down. He has shown so much support.

    “When people were scared, he stood with us, he stood with us at the detriment of his life. So, we will continue to support him, so that his people will know that his decision wasn’t a wrong one.

    “He requested for hospital and school. Those are very key areas of our administration. I assure you, here and now that we will immediately commence the process to give a hospital to the community.

    “We will also improve the state of your school. We will not end there: we will also visit your request for internal roads in the area.

    “The Nyewali Akpor made a request too. He said he doesn’t have a palace. Here and now, let me also say that the Ministry of Special Projects will take over that project to ensure that we give His Majesty a befitting palace.”

    Providing the description of the project, the Permanent Secretary, Rivers State Ministry of Works, Atemea Briggs, explained that the road was initially awarded by the immediate past administration in April, 2017.

    He said it was abandoned in March 2020, after preliminary works, leaving the unprotected roadbed, shoulders, and short stretches of drainages already achieved to collapse.

    He said: “This 5.0 Km long road cuts across Okania community through Ogbogoro community, and connects the Port Harcourt Ring Road project that is also under construction. The road is 10 meters wide with a drainage length of 2.5km.

    “It was awarded to CCECC Nigeria Limited on April 22, 2024, at the cost of N6.7 billion, and 40 percent of the contract value, amounting to N2.69billion, has been paid to the contractor as mobilisation fee. The project is expected to be completed in five months.”

  • Fubara unveils Rivers opportunities to investors amid crisis

    Fubara unveils Rivers opportunities to investors amid crisis

    Rivers state governor, Siminilayi Fubara, has dismissed the ongoing political crisis in the state and called on local and foreign investors to take advantage of numerous economic opportunities in Rivers.

    Speaking at the Rivers State Investment Summit 2024 tagged, Rivers Emerge, Fubara assured investors that the state was safe and ready to do business with them.

    The summit, which was held at the Obi Wali International Conference Center, Port Harcourt on Wednesday attracted captains of industries, economic experts, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and women.

    The governor said his administration believed in the growth and development of Rivers first and ahead of political rivalry.

    He said: “This event we tagged Rivers Emerge is not a mistake because we believe it is important to think about the state first. The development of this state is the most important thing.

    “It is not the political rivalry. After politics, we must have a base and that base is our state. That base is when there is development in the state. If a state is not viable I don’t think there is any need for struggle”.

    The governor decried the fading glory of Rivers as an industrialised state saying his administration was determined to return the state to the path of steady economic growth and development.

    The governor said: “Historically, Rivers State, especially Port Harcourt, was an established commercial centre in Nigeria. The Trans-Amadi Industrial Layout hosted several thriving commercial and industrial concerns that created income, jobs, and prosperity for our State and people.

    “Sadly, all that is now history as most of the industrial ventures in that estate have either closed shop or become moribund.  The industrial estate is now characterised by abandoned factory buildings and warehouses.

    “We have since lost our rating as one of the industrialised States and competitiveness as a preferred destination for domestic and foreign direct investments resulting in the continuous posting of low economic growth, high unemployment rate, and slow development.

    “For decades, the Rivers State Government had continued to depend more on allocations from the federation account to fund its expenditures because tax revenues had remained low due to low investments and economic growth.

    “For us, building a resilient, robust, and diversified economy holds the key to sustainable peace, security, and progress of our State and the spiritual, social, and physical well-being of our people.

    “We, therefore, commit to the re-industrialisation of Rivers State in partnership with the informal and organised private sectors through necessary policy, legal, and other support measures, and systems”.

    Fubara expressed optimism that Rivers would emerge from the summit to position itself as a premier investment destination, offering boundless economic opportunities for domestic and global investors.

    The governor told investors that Rivers was blessed with enormous human and natural resources such as oil and gas, fertile soil, solid minerals, and an extensive coastline with great water bodies.

    He said the state remained the centre-point of the oil and gas industry in West Africa adding that Rivers accounted for over 40% of crude oil production onshore in the country and 100% of liquefied gas export.

    Read Also: Fubara swears in commissioners cleared by three lawmakers

    Fubara said: “The state also is the second largest economy in Nigeria, and with a nominal GDP of over $28.4bn, the state’s economy ranks in the top 25 economies in Africa comparable to countries like Botswana, Rwanda, and Gabon.

    “The State has a relatively robust infrastructure, including good roads, two seaports, an international airport, and a free trade zone, and with a population of over seven million indigenously diverse, educated, highly hospitable people, and a business-friendly environment, Rivers State stands at the centre of diverse economic opportunities.

    “Rivers State provides several investment opportunities across diverse sectors of our economy, including oil and gas, agriculture and agro-processing, manufacturing, hospitality and tourism, education, ICT, and healthcare, infrastructure development, glass products, and garments production, and power generation and transmission, to mention a few.”

  • I will defend every decision as Governor, says Fubara

    I will defend every decision as Governor, says Fubara

    Rivers Governor Siminalayi Fubara has boasted that he will defend every decision he has taken since he assumed office.

    The Governor also lamented that some of the commissioners left their offices without keeping any record of their activities.

    The Governor called on the eight newly sworn-in commissioners not to be like such ones but to cultivate the culture of keeping accurate records of their dealings in their various ministries.

    Fubara maintained that such culture was essential for the effective functioning of any organised system, particularly the civil service because they provided useful history of events, decisions and actions, including indices of productivity.

    The Governor spoke shortly after inaugurating  the commissioners at the Executive Council Chambers of Government House in Port Harcourt on Tuesday night. 

    The eight commissioners are Prince Charles Bekee, Barrister Collins Onunwo; Prince Solomon Abel Eke, Dr Peter Medee, Elloka Tasie Amadi,  Basoene Joshua Benibo, Mr Tambari Sydney Gbara and Dr Ovy Orluideye Chinendum Chukwuma.

    The Governor in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary (CPS), Nelson Chukwudi, insisted that it was regrettable that some commissioners, left the administration ignoring the culture of proper documentation because they had no record of activities in their ministries.

    He said: “I know what I am saying. Some of them who left here as commissioners, there are no records in their ministries. We’ve had a few meetings with people. We were looking for records which we could not find, but that is for them and their gods, I am not bothered about that.

    “But, you that are coming in now, please, do this work as seasoned administrators. Work with your Permanent Secretaries, the things that you don’t know, ask questions from them, they will tell you, they will teach you too. It doesn’t reduce you as not being the head. But it helps you to succeed as a good administrator.”

    Fubara enjoined them to emulate his work culture and pay attention to details, adding that it should reflect in the nature of records they keep.

    Read Also: Fubara swears in commissioners cleared by three lawmakers

    The gyovernor said discipline was central to his administration, a work culture that he  had been nurtured while growing through the ranks in the civil service, saying that it must be the hallmark of anybody associated with his government.

    He said: “Let me say this: this government is a government that is birthed by high level discipline. 

    “I don’t know about other people that are working with me, but as a person, from the time that I started working as civil servant, from the time I worked in the Office of the Accountant General with my boss, we didn’t play with keeping good records.

    “I can boldly stand here to say that whatever that transpired, the records are there right from the time we worked from 2007 to date. They are there for anybody to go and see. 

    “Likewise, what happened from the time of the immediate past administration. I carefully kept my records clean. The records are there. 

    “So, I want you to understand that, while I am sitting here to pilot the affairs of this State, as a matter of fact, the records I am keeping are even more excellent because I have a day-to-day report of what I am doing.

     “So, I am not bothered or afraid. Call me any day, call me anytime, I will stand and defend every action, every decision that we have taken. 

    “So, I want you to stand on that premise, knowing fully well that whatever you are doing, in case you are called upon tomorrow to give account, you can do so confidently. Keep your records straight”.

    Fubara said  that they had taken their oath of service and the content was sufficient charge to guide their conduct while they served the state.

    He urged them to appreciate the fact that it was God that had given them the opportunity to be chosen and should know that they owed God the responsibility to deliver to Rivers people.

    He said: “The oath you took is the charge. I am not asking you to be obedient to me. I am not asking you to do my biddings. But, I am requesting from everyone of you here to defend the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the dignity of our dear State.

    “Your position as a Commissioner today is not just for you to answer to me. It is to work for the interest of our State. 

    “But, I know that with what I have heard, with the few of you that I have related with, I know that you are men of integrity. 

    “You are not going to bring shame to our dear State, you are not going to bring shame to your families, you are not going to bring shame to your local governments. You will stand tall, no matter the situation,” he said.

  • Fubara swears in commissioners cleared by three lawmakers

    Fubara swears in commissioners cleared by three lawmakers

    • ‘I have record of my service as AG’
    • Court stops extension of councils tenure

    Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has inaugurated eight commissioners cleared by three lawmakers led Victor Oko-Jombo.

    The governor made this known last night in a tweet on his X-handle.

    In the message, he reaffirmed his dedication to providing quality leadership for the people of Rivers State.

    Fubara emphasised his administration’s commitment to prioritizing the needs of Rivers people in all considerations.

    The commissioners are: Prince Charles O. Bekee, Onunwo Collins. Solomon Abel Eke, Peter Medee, Olisaelloka Tasie-Amadi, Basoene Joshua Benibo, Tambari Sydney Gbara  and Dr. Ovy Orluideye Chinendum Chukwuma.

    During the screening, two of the nominees, Sir Peter Medee and  Olisaelloka Tasie-Amadi, a lawyer,  were asked by the lawmakers to take a bow.

    The nominees promised to bring their wealth of experience to bear on governance.

    The House Leader, Sokari Good Boy Sokari, pleaded with his colleagues to confirm the nominees since most of them had served in various capacities in the state.

    Read Also: UPDATED: I acted as civil servant based on approvals, says Fubara

    Oko-Jumbo  commended Fubara for his achievements, urging him to remain focused and shun distractions.

    Fubara yesterday explained why he would not be affected by his decision to probe his predecessor, Nyesom Wike,  Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

    Fubara, who served as Accountant-General in the Wike administration, said he acted as a civil servant based on approvals by the former governor.

    He said critics of the proposed probe needed to know that he has records of his involvement in the state’s financial transactions as a civil servant.

    Speaking during the inauguration of Egbeda internal roads, Fubara insisted that his records would show that everything he did under the last administration was based on approvals.

    Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, who inaugurated the roads, expressed optimism that peace would return to the state.

    Also, a High Court sitting in Port-Harcourt, the state capital, stopped the elongation of tenure of local government chairmen.

    I am ready for queries, says Fubara

    Defending his decision to probe the preceding Administration, Fubara said he was ready to answer queries, having documented all his activities as a civil servant.

    He said: “What we bring to our people is service delivery at record time and cost-effective. Everything we are doing is in my white paper. I carry it along. There is no issue of any manipulation. Call me any day, any time, it is there.

    “Even the ones l did before this time. I still have all the records. If you call me any day, I will bring the records of all my activities in government. I know that as a civil servant, what is most important is record keeping.

    “I am not scared of anything. Anybody who calls me up any day, any time, I have my records to show. I have all the approvals to show that I acted based on approvals and not personal decisions. We are not going to rest until we make everyone happy in Rivers State.”

    Fubara commended the contractor for delivery the ⁷road on record time and the people of the area for cooperating with the company.

    He said that his administration only started taking decisions on governance in February, adding that if within four months he could deliver such projects, he would do more within two years in office.

    Fubara said: “It is one thing awarding a job, but another delivering at record time. Let me also thank the great people of Egbeda in extensions Emohua Local Government Area for your support before, during and after the election.”

    ‘Peace will return to Rivers’

    Oborevwori said peace will return to the state, assuring that the feud between Fubara and Wike will be resolved.

    He lauded the governor for his infrastructural projects, urging him to sustain the tempo of achievements.

    Oborevwori said:  “This road project at Egbeda bears true testimony of the commitment of the Rivers State Government towards fulfilling its promise of sustainable infrastructure development of the State.

    “It is reassuring that these all-season roads will economically empower, not only the people of Egbeda, but the entire Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State.

    “With these roads, the people will enjoy better socio-economic empowerment and integration between the local government and the rest of the state.

    “Let me thank you for your support to my brother. What I have seen here is organic love. It is not a borrowed crowd.i promise you he will not fail you  peace will return to Rivers State”

    The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Works, Atemea Briggs, said the project was delivered within schedule and fully paid for.

    He recalled that the internal roads were initially awarded by the immediate past administration on March 9, 2023, to Monier Construction Company Nigeria Limited (MCC) at a cost of N3.87billlion.

    Briggs added: “Later on November 27, 2023, the contract was reversed to include additional roads to better serve the Egbeda community. As a result, the reverse contract sum was increased to N12billion.

    “Before our governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara took office on May 29, 2023, only N1.5billion of the contract sum had been paid by the previous administration”.

    Briggs said the roads entailed an increase of the total lanes from 9.32 kilometers to 21.5 kilometers, and the total drainage length to 25.4 kilometers.”

    Former Works Commissioner Emmanuel Omah, said Egbeda land, which is made up of the largest indigenous natives in nine communities, was grateful to the governor for completing the project.

    Court stops tenure elongation for chairmen

    The Rivers State High Court sitting in Port Harcourt declared the six-month tenure elongation of the elected local government chairmen null and void.

    Their tenure was elongated by the Martins Amaewhule-led House of Assembly.

    The court also declared the Local Government Law No.2 of 2024, whose provisions extended the tenure of local government chairmen, as invalid.

    The court ruled that the law was inconsistent with the 1999 Constitution and section 9 (1) of Rivers State Law No 5 of 2018, which fixed three-year tenure for local government chairmen and councilors.

  • UPDATED: I acted as civil servant based on approvals, says Fubara

    UPDATED: I acted as civil servant based on approvals, says Fubara

    Rivers Governor Siminalayi Fubara, has told persons wondering why he would dare to probe the last administration he was part of that he possessed records of everything he did as a civil servant.

    Speaking on Tuesday during the inauguration of Egbeda internal roads, Fubara said his records would show that everything he did in the last administration was based on approvals.

    The Governor said he was ready to answer queries as he took his time to document all his activities as a civil servant.

    He said: “What we bring to our people is service delivery at record time and cost effective. Everything we are doing is in my white paper. I carry it along. There is no issue of any manipulation. Call me any day, any time it is there.

    ” Even the ones l did before this time. I still have all the records. If you call me any day, I will bring my records of all my activities in government. I know that as a civil servant what is most important is record keeping. 

    “I am not scared of anything. Anybody who calls me up any day any time I have my records to show. I have all the approvals to show that I acted based on approvals and not personal decisions. We are not going to rest until we make everyone happy in Rivers State” .

    Read Also: Why Fubara, Wike should end feud now, by Jonathan

    Fubara commended the contractor for delivery the internal road on record time and the people of the area for cooperating with the company.

    He insisted that his administration only started taking decisions on governance in February and argued that if within four months he could deliver such projects, he would do more within two years in office.

    He said: “It is one thing awarding a job but another delivering at record time. Let me also thank the great people of Egbeda in extensions Emohua Local Government Area for your support before, during and after the election. 

    “And for us we owe you the dividends of democracy, which is service to our people. We are just starting I can assure you. If in four months we can do this and we are getting this level of applause, you can imagine what will happen when we do one year or two years. Rivers State would have experienced something different from the regular governance.

    “The permanent secretary has explained what happened before we came in and what happened after. It is to tell the world that our concern is the welfare of the people.

    “There is nothing wrong in building a road or promising to develop an area but what is important is when you want to do those things do it to the satisfaction of people.

    “What we have done here is not just building an internal road for you but meeting your needs and solving your flood problems. I want to also thank you for your support. 

    You cooperated with the  contractor and that is why he was able to finish on record time”

    The Governor promised to extend the road based on the community’s requests and to upgrade their their school insisting that he would not build boarding facilities in the school 

    He said: “I have heard your request you want an extension of the other side of the road. We are going to do it for you. You want an upgrade of your school, we will come for a town hall meeting for that. After consulting with all of you, we will grant your request. 

    “Thirdly you mentioned about your school we are going to upgrade the school but we are not going to make it a boarding school because you all know the situation of our country. This is a village that you are managing, putting a boarding school here will create a problem not just for the government but also for the locals.

    ” We will upgrade the school to a standard school but without boarding facilities. You are aware that the ones we did before are not functioning. I am a pragmatic person, we will go for what we know that is operational”.

    Fubara vowed to protect the people of Egbeda and the traditional rulers saying they had no reason to be afraid.

    He said: “Let me assure everyone especially the people of Emohua and the Egbeda community in particular, we will protect you. Don’t be scared. By the Special grace of God we still have all it takes to protect you.

    ” I want to thank you for journeying with us in showcasing tye activities of our government in four months. When I say four months I mean it. We started full governance in the month of February. That was when we started taking decisions and confronting governance.

    ” I am proud to say that our people are happy with what we have done, so our traditional rulers don’t be worried we will watch your back. Don’t be scared of the rumours you hear”

    While accepting over 200 plots of land given to him by the community, the governor said: “The community gave me oer 200 plots of land. I want to thank you for that. I accept it because you gave it to me out of love.  We will decide on what we are going to do with it.

    Inaugurating the project, Delta Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, said he drove with Fubara on the road while accessing the venue of the event, and could testify of the commitment of his brother governor to sustain infrastructural development in the State.

    He said:  “This road project at Egbeda bears true testimony of the commitment of the Rivers State Government towards fulfilling its promise of sustainable infrastructure development of the State.

    “It is reassuring that these all-season roads will economically empower, not only the people of Egbeda, but the entire Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State.

    “With these roads, the people will enjoy better socio-economic empowerment and integration between the local government and the rest of the state.

    “Let me thank you for your support to my brother. What I have seen here is organic love. It is not a borrowed crowd.i promise you he will not fail you  peace will return to Rivers State” 

    Providing the description of the project, Permanent Secretary, Rivers State Ministry of Works, Atemea Briggs, said the construction of the Egbeda Internal roads project was delivered within schedule and fully paid for.

    Briggs explained that the internal roads were initially awarded by the immediate past administration on March 9, 2023, to Monier Construction Company Nigeria Limited (MCC) at a cost of N3.87billlion.

    He said: “Later on November 27, 2023, the contract was reversed to include additional roads to better serve the Egbeda community. As a result, the reverse contract sum was increased to N12billion.

    “Before our Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara took office on May 29, 2023, only N1.5billion of the contract sum had been paid by the previous administration”.

    Briggs said the roads entailed an increase of the total lanes from 9.32 kilometers to 21.5 kilometers, and the total drainage length to 25.4 kilometers.

    In his welcome address, a former commissioner, State Ministry of Works, Emmanuel Omah, said Egbeda land was made up of the largest number of indigenous natives in nine communities, adding that the people were grateful to Governor Fubara for completing the reconstruction work on the internal roads with drainages in the area.

  • BREAKING: I have records to show all I did was based on approvals, says Fubara  

    BREAKING: I have records to show all I did was based on approvals, says Fubara  

    Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has addressed those questioning his decision to investigate the previous administration, in which he had served.

    He said that he possesses records of all his actions as a civil servant.

    During the inauguration of Egbeda internal roads on Tuesday, May 21, Fubara emphasized that his records demonstrate that all his actions in the last administration were based on proper approvals.

    Read Also: Why Fubara, Wike should end feud now, by Jonathan

    The governor said he was ready to answer queries, saying he took his time to document all his activities as a civil servant.

    Details shortly…