Issues
Understanding Amaechinomics
Experience and research has proven that understanding and dialogue are the two desirable features in any progressive venture, be it economics, politics, social and even at interpersonal level.
It is a common knowledge that governor Amaechi’s Economic philosophy and its impacts relative to the State GDP and Human Development Index in the last four years have attracted series of comments and public attention in recent times.
Governor Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi in his address to the South-South Committee on 1999 Constitution Review in Port Harcourt promised the people that “it is about reforms and changes that touch human lives. I stand on the side of the people to identify with you on this journey to make history”. In the same vein, he stated “we need to pursue education reform, infrastructure of schools, entrepreneurship and development of infrastructure to support economic growth and create employment opportunities”.
Also, during his 2010 Budget Speech, he said, “We are emboldened by our courage of conviction that we have no alternative than to confront our development challenges regardless of the costs. To choose to do otherwise will amount to a betrayal of the yearnings of the majority of the poor population of Rivers State”.
The big question has been whether the promises have been delivered or in the realm of deliverables. If yes how, has it reflected in the living standard of the people?
Also considering the enormous strategic value of Rivers State, which has great significance for gauging the general health of the national economy, coupled with the primordial role of political leadership in determining the performance of their economies and the wellbeing of a citizens, it is imperative that I take more than a passing interest in knowing the overall economic objective of government, strategic policy direction and how the economy is generally being managed and optimised for the common good. As one German philosopher would say “our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter”.
I therefore considered it a professional and ethical responsibility to make this contribution which seeks to achieve three main objectives with hope that government and the governed will have something to learn. They are: (i) The Efficacy of Amaechi’s Economic Model – Amaechinomics. (ii) the State Economic Performance & its Impacts on the People and (iii) the way forward .
(i) The efficacy of Amaechi’s economic model –”Amaechinomics”
The efficacy of Amaechi’s economic Magna Carta referred to in this work as the administration’s economic model Amaechinomics is traced to the perceived impressive social welfare indicators predictive of brighter economic outlook and emerging economic miracle in the state in spite of obvious fundamental challenges.
Various study group including policy circles experts review groups, scholars, business round table and international investors have taken deep interest in raveling the mystery of Amaechi’s economic philosophy with a view to taking full advantage of the emerging economy. The model which is referred to in the work as Amaechinomics is my coinage.
Experts liken Amaechinomics to the former British Prime Minister, Tony Blair’s Ten Principles of conflict Resolution which is currently being studied globally. The concept of Amaechinomics is defined as “The grand united strategies for a holistic economic transformation of Rivers State based on strategic trianagle of quality, time and cost as key success factors and guided by entrepreneurial discipline with public private partnership as its cardinal strategy for infrastructure reforms”.
The model seeks to synergise with the organised private sector and is anchored on leadership accountability, good governance and value reorientation as key pillars. It is driven by government; determination to reverse the negative socio-economic indices and entrapment policies of the past and engender optimal resource utilisation, create economic growth sustainability and usher in a new Rivers State as a preferred destination for tourists and investors in Nigeria and sub-saharan Africa.
(ii) The state economic performance and its impacts on the people.
It is particularly important to note that, of the three basic sectors, government business and citizen that interact to perform different but complementary and collaborative roles to promote sustainable economic growth and development, the role of government is most critical in determining the performance of the economy and the wellbeing of its citizenry.
As a keen observer of this administration. I have studiously gone through various publications including reports of International Rating Agencies on the performance of the state economy, government regular accounts of stewardship and having critically analysed the state annual budgets as a key fiscal instrument for economic management and self assessment, I have the conviction that there is huge ambition to transform the state with the speed of cyclone through government massive investment in physical infrastructure, human capital development, education, health, power, agriculture and security in order to reverse the negative socio-economic indices of the past and therefore lay a solid economic framework as a base to restore investors confidence, improve its credit rating profile.
According to World Bank, it is estimated that every 1 per cent of government fund invested in infrastructure leads to an equivalent 1 per cent increase in gross domestic product (GDP). This, perhaps, accounts for the massive economic expansion across all sectors simultaneously with expected impacts ranging from short, medium to long term.
Although there was no reliable data to measure with certainty the size of the state GDP, casual evidence suggests that Rivers State is the second largest economy in Nigeria with estimated annual budget of N455 billion ($3 billion). This is higher than budgets of most African nations with estimated population of about 5.6 million people.
The administration’s perception of the state economic problems, and its determination to finding a lasting solution reaffirmed to me the appropriateness of the Amaechi’s economic philosophy, his vision to improve on the above standard and the assertion that when strong and focused leaders are willing to work, the odds of reaching the optimal multiply exponentially.
By dint of hard work, tenacity of purpose and policy consistency, the multifaceted economic model of Amaechi led administration has in the last four years re-designed the state’s political economy by impinging in every sector of the economy. It is my expectation that some of the projects and initiatives now at advanced stage of completion will greatly ameliorate the poverty level and harrowing experience of the teaming masses of the Rivers people.
Furthermore, the observed progressive reduction in the State Budget Expenditure pattern, increased ratio of capital to current expenditure, the culture of building reserve for future generation, increase in internally generated revenue (IGR) and the fiscal operation overall surplus of N32 billion in 2010 are practical indications of government strict adherence to budget discipline, prudent management of public fund and changing course of development.
Also, the state current ranking of B+ and AA- on a national long term rating by international rating agencies is a clear signal of positive impact of government economics philosophy towards building an economic system that is open and fair, devoid of feudal system where those in power decide who become rich or poor.
Within the last four years, it was discovered that loans facilities were extended to about 889 indigent beneficiaries to boost credit at grassroots level. The aim was to promote small businesses, engage the creative minds of our youths and ensure that those poor persons who are economically active in the rural areas are not left out. Based on this, I am inclined to belief very strongly. Roosevelts’ assertion that “the best of our progress is not whether we add more to the abundance of those who have much. It is whether we provided enough for those who have too little”.
The performance of the state economy can best be summarised in the words of Chief Emeka Anyaoku, former Secretary General of the Common Wealth, “… I could see Rivers State is fast approaching a level of development and from what I have seen it is wonderful …” I also quite agree with Rev. Jessie Jackson that “Amaechi represents the future and hope of the country”.
(iii) The Way Forward
In as much as Nigeria’s experience with Public Private Partnership (PPP) model has been generally considered successful with numerous upsides, experts still believe that there are important risks to be critically considered. Also, the need for careful evaluation of key success factors and sustainability is required.
Accordingly, to effectively plan, design and proactively manage, “PPP Model” requires good Financial Risks Management, appropriate monitoring and management of quality and performance, efficient evaluation mechanisms and key performance indicators. A careful review of Decision Making processes, rewards and benefits, accurate up-front evaluation of possible trade-offs, responsibilities, and the applicable contractual and regulatory framework is also required.
It is therefore imperative to recommend for regular evaluation and reviews of PPP projects in the state, utilizing internal and external oversight methods to ensure continuity in the monitoring and management of quality and performance. This has a further advantage of forestalling operational risks emanating from inadequate regulatory framework and low institutional capacity etc.
Finally, according to Arthur Livingstone, “….. planning is both an act of government and response of the people, requiring the authority of the first to give it shape and the participation of the second to make it work”.
The present government has provided the future shape of the state economy driven by its economic model Amaechinomics, it is our responsibility to make it work through active and constructive contributions in the overall interest to build a virile economy and make the state a choice investment destination.
It is on record that no matter how well a programme may be, it will not work in practice unless supported by the people. This is the time for all professionals, best minds and the brightest of the political class including the combined strength of the youths and the wisdom of the old to shun atomistic thinking, perpetual war with ourselves and get involved. It is a silent state economic revolution that needs the support of all.
I mean, the kind of involvement and support that will compliment government’s efforts and develop a mindset to get back what we gained from the system, realising that there cannot be sustainable wealth creation without sustained interest in value added for the common good of our people.
Jaja, a banker and public affairs analyst, wrote in from Port Harcourt.
Isaac Mietamuno Jaja
In 2015, I made a conscious decision to invest my financial resources, my time, and energy into supporting Nyesom Wike’s gubernatorial campaign. I poured my heart and soul into ensuring Nyesom Wike emerged victorious even at the risk of my personal safety.
Again in 2019, I doubled down on my commitment. I invested a significant amount of money to procure campaign outfits for all twenty-three Local Governments Areas of Rivers State. I spared no expense in supplementing Wike’s election efforts in my own local government, and once again putting myself at great risk to safeguard the fairness and transparency of the electoral process.
However, despite my unwavering loyalty and sacrifices, I found myself abandoned and forgotten by Wike. Throughout his eight-year tenure, he failed to acknowledge my contributions or fulfill his promises and agreements. Even as a former Deputy Governor, Wike denied me my severance benefit.
My investment in Wike’s governorship was not just financial – it was a commitment of passion, dedication, and belief in a better future for Rivers State. Yet, his leadership style of dishonesty, greed, drunkenness and rash abuse of senior citizens brought me nothing but disappointment, misery and losses.
By the grace of God, today I speak not as a victim, but as a hero. I have accepted my losses, and I have moved on. And as I reflect on my experience, I cannot help but urge Wike to do the same and allow peace and development to reign in Rivers State.
Nyesom Wike, when you speak of investing in Governor Sim Fubara’s election, remember those like me who also invested in you. Remember the sacrifices I made, the risks I took, and the promises and agreements you left unfulfilled.
It is time for you, Wike, to let go of the past and allow Governor Sim Fubara the breathing space he needs to lead Rivers State forward. Allow him to focus on the challenges of good governance and the aspirations of the people. Spare him these unwarranted and ill-conceived political manoeuvrings founded on personal agenda and not for general good of Rivers State and her people.
I may have lost my investment on Wike, but I have not lost hope in the future of Rivers State. And together, we will continue to strive for a brighter tomorrow.
Long Live the Governor to Rivers State, Sir Siminialayi Fubara!
Long Live the Good People of Rivers State!!
Long Live the Federal Republic of Nigeria!!!
Engr Ikuru is former Deputy Governor of Rivers State.
Tele Ikuru
The man Tony Okocha, the devastated tattered ragtag remnant Rivers APC factional, but Caretaker, Chairman, is known for being notoriously a hireling willing to play in the mud just for the pay or settlement. To Rt Hon Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, he did against Chief Nyesom Wike. To Senator Magnus Abe, he did against Rotimi Amaechi. To Chief Nyesom Wike, he did against Magnus Abe. Having maintained such unbefitting character trait, it is not surprising to see him at his demeaned best showing off his tainted skill of grandstanding and loquaciously struggling fruitlessly almost every day to castigate the popular Rivers people’s Governor with very glaring false, bogus and unsubstantiated claims such as:
1. That Governor Fubara is wasting state fund in the name of thanksgiving across 23 Local Government Areas.
2. That Governor Fubara has withheld Local Government funds.
3. That Governor Fubara runs the government without input from the State Executive Council.
4. That nothing is happening in the State with respect to governance.
To the above false claims of Tony Okocha, every reasonable, right thinking and well-meaning Rivers person would effortlessly puncture all as rascality and mendacity taken too far.
Apart from the fact that Governor Siminalayi Fubara had said he is not sponsoring the massive SIMplified Movement Thanksgiving events across the Local Government Areas of the State being organised by elated Rivers people who feel liberated from an era of overbearing and suppressive form of leadership in the State, Tony Okocha should be asked to prove his false claim with indisputable facts and figures. Until then, let Tony Okocha respect himself and learn to keep quiet as an elderly person who is saddled with such a responsible position as Rivers State Representative in the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Board. A position that places a huge responsibility on him to ensure that the core objectives of the commission are actualised in the State, by not only ensuring that Rivers State gets its fair share of its dues in terms of projects, programmes and activities, but by synergising with the state government on development matters concerning the state vis-a-vis the responsibilities of NDDC to the State. In summary, the SIMplified Movement is all about a happy and joyful people of Rivers State who have decided to stand and stick together to defend and uphold their common heritage and patrimony. It is a voluntary venture, not sponsored by the government.
To his claim that the Governor has withheld Local Government funds, Mr Tony Okocha should also be asked to prove that with facts and figures and explain why the Governor would do such. More so, what is Tony Okocha’s business, assuming, but not conceding, that a PDP Governor withholds money against PDP-led 23 Local Government authorities? Did Local Government workers across the state complain to Okocha, the meddlesome hireling, an acclaimed APC Caretaker Committee Chairman in Rivers State?
On his ignorant and false claim that the Governor runs the government without input from the state exco, Okocha, the busybody wannabe should explain how he was employed or engaged as the spokesperson of members of the Rivers State Executive Council. He should also tell us his source of information to that effect, if it is not just a proof that he is making himself known as a perpetually irredeemable hireling notoriously good for playing the spoiler’s role.
On Mr Okocha’s assertion, probably, borne out of lack of more convincing lies, that nothing is happening in the State with respect to governance, is sure a proof that the man is only acting a bad and an unsellable script to justify the reward of expected gratifying filthy lucre, which is the compelling reason for condescending so low and evilly so. How else is governance measured, if not by executing meaningful and impactful projects, giving hope, inspiring and putting smiles on the faces of the people with joy of fulfilment in their hearts, both civil servants and everyone living and doing business in the State? Is Okocha blind to see and deaf to hear of the good works of the Governor Fubara led Rivers State Government? Civil servants are happy, teachers are highly elated. Several projects are ongoing. Investors are trooping in. The health sector, education, agriculture, sports have been highly boosted under Governor Fubara-led administration. To Okocha, there’s no governance in the State because patronage of free money is not getting to him from the Governor but from other sources that are likely against the Governor.
Let Tony Okocha weep more. Rivers State is breathing fresh air already and is liberated.
Let Tony Okocha tell us how he has, so far, as Rivers State Representative in the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), clearly effected development in the State through the NDDC, and why he lied that there was Cholera outbreak with deaths recorded in Soku in Akuku-Toru Local Government Area with the intent of raking in about ¦ N5billion for non-existent mitigation programmes?
Odike is Special Assistant to Rivers State Governor on Social/New Media .
Bernard C. Idike
Franklin Delano Roosevelt, commonly known as FDR, was an American statesman and politician who served as the 32nd President of the United States from 1933 until his death in 1945. He was a member of the Democratic Party and is the only United States President to have served more than two terms.
In one of his popular quotes, he said, “The creed of our democracy is that liberty is acquired and kept by men and women who are strong and self-reliant, and possessed of such wisdom as God gives mankind – men and women who are just, and understanding, and generous to others — men and women who are capable of disciplining themselves. For they are the rulers and they must rule themselves.”
This explains the recent gathering of creme la creme of Asari-Toru political gladiators converged at the inauguration of the Simplified Movement, ASALGA chapter to reiterate their unflinching support for the Rivers State Governor, His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara whose mantra revolves around liberation.
The event which took place at the Autograph in Port Harcourt on the 1st of March, 2024, to galvanise strong support for Governor Fubara attracted over 500 members of the Simplified Movement from the Asari-Toru Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The gathering of supporters of Governor Fubara’s government, under the umbrella of the Simplified Movement, the ASALGA chapter led by an astute politician, former member of the Federal House of Representatives and two- time member of the Rivers State Executive Council as Commissioner, Chief Hon. Paworiso Samuel Horsfall comprised both the old and young generation political helmsmen drawn from all the 13 Wards of the local government area.
The nerve-““““““wracking gathering had the likes of the 1999 democratic system pioneer Chairman of Asari-Toru Local Government Council and former two-time Special Adviser to ex-Governor Nyesom Wike, Hon. Opakirite Mackson Jackreece; former member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Adokiye Young-Harry; former member of the State House of Assembly, Hon. Daisy West and former Special Adviser to ex-Governor Nyesom Wike, Chief Hon. Iboroma Norman Wokoma.
Others were the incumbent Vice Chairman of Asari-Toru Local Government Council, Hon. (Mrs.) Tekena Wokoma; former Commissioner of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission, Hon. Dr. Hope Barango; the South-West Vice Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Sule Amachree and the Secretary of the Local Government chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Hon. Cladious Princewill; former Chief of Staff of Council, Hon. Ajumogobia West and former Chairman of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), ASALGA, Hon. Onari Awo Tariah.
Also present at the event were past caretaker committee chairmen of the Local Government Council including, Hon. Waite Harry, Hon. Dawari Hamilton Ibinabo, Hon. Wright Warmate and former Deputy Mayor of the Port Harcourt City Council, Hon. Adokiye Horsfall amongst others. My humble self belongs to the movement. The list is inexhaustible.
Speaking at the inauguration, the member representing Asari-Toru/Akuku-Toru Federal Constituency and leader of the Asari-Toru political family, Hon. Boma Goodhead assured the people of the commitment of the Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara to extend visible dividends of democracy to the people of ASALGA.
The federal lawmaker who spoke through her representative, Dr. Sule Amachree, said Governor Fubara means well for Rivers people, particularly the people of ASALGA and urged them to remain calm, peaceful and resolute in their support to the administration of the State Governor.
“His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara is the Governor ordained by God to liberate Rivers people from the snares of poverty and oppression. He is God-sent to bring visible and even development to Rivers State and Asari-Toru people are on the top of that agenda of development,” she said.
Hon. Goodhead reiterated her confidence in the capacity of the leader of the Simplified Movement, ASALGA chapter, Chief Hon. Paworiso Samuel Horsfall to mobilise massive support and a huge source of encouragement for the Government of Sir Siminalayi Fubara to succeed.
“I urge you to continue to stand firm with our Governor. Be rest assured that His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara is a man of peace, focused and determined to deliver on the mandate given to him by the people of Rivers State. He will not fail you,” she said.
In his speech, the leader of the ASALGA chapter of the Simplified Movement, Chief Hon. Paworiso Samuel Horsfall described the movement as a child of necessity born out of the hunger of Rivers people for a paradigm shift from oppression to liberation.
“As witnessed across the length and breadth of Rivers State, the Simplified Movement is a child of necessity, born out of the hunger for a paradigm shift from oppression to liberation, with one core objective to promote and defend the interests of Rivers State and her people. It is on this account, we stand as dependable allies giving strong support to the Executive Governor, His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara in his pursuit of peace and commitment to the genuine development of Rivers State.
“It is our position that with the elections come and gone, it is practically a time to face governance and to ensure deliverables of dividends to the people of Rivers State in the atmosphere of peace, security and stability,” he said.
Chief Samuel Horsfall explained that Rivers people saw the leadership qualities needed to achieve the sole objective to genuinely defend and promote the interest of the State in Governor Fubara, hence the spontaneous massive support expressed in the birth of the Simplified Movement.
He recounted avalanche of achievements made by Governor Fubara within six months in office. “We appreciate the Governor of Rivers State, His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara for his resilience and determination to make a difference. It is on record and attestable by all, the numerous projects being executed by his administration.
“Such as the ongoing construction of the gigantic Port Harcourt Ring Road project, the 20,000 housing units for low income earners, the Ogoni-Andoni-Opobo-Nkoro Unity road, the near completion of the 10km Old Port Harcourt-Bori road, the Emohua-Kalabari road, the 6.5km Woji-Alesa-Refinery link road and the inclusion of the remaining part of the Trans-Kalabari road project in the 2024 budget. “Moreover, the promotion of the State civil servants, first time in history payment of N100,000.00 Christmas bonus to civil servants across board, approval of promotions and implementation of N30,000.00 minimum wage for local government workers and the N4 billion single digit interest loans facility for Small and Medium Scale business operators in Rivers State. All these achievements within six months in office are eloquent testimonies of Governor Fubara to deliberately improve the welfare of Rivers people.
“We are convinced that such a proven great mind and well experienced, tested and trusted administrator/technocrat, Governor Fubara has demonstrated the capacity to deliver effectively the needed democratic dividends to Rivers people. It is on this convention we are gathered here for the umpteenth time to reaffirm our unalloyed support and commitment to his administration,” Chief Samuel Horsfall declared.
He disclosed that the gathering was to put in place citizens mobilisation strategy to forge a collaborative bond with the Governor to foster partnership for the development of ASALGA and the State. He, therefore, advised those he called detractors of Governor Fubara’s administration to desist forthwith and allow the Governor to remain focused in his quest to deliver on his mandate.
“All detractors should desist from further attacks on the Governor and the Chief of Staff, Government House, Rt. Hon. Edison Ehie and allow the Governor to focus on the delivery of the good policies and programmes to Rivers people. We unequivocally condemn attempts by disgruntled Abuja politicians to employ intimidation antics against the former Speaker of the 10th State Assembly and current Chief of Staff, Government House, Rt. Hon. Edison Ehie and others who are standing on the path of justice and good conscience for the collective good of Rivers State.
“We equally urge the Nigerian Police and other security agencies to be discreet in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities in the State and not to allow themselves to be used by selfish individuals who do not mean well to fuel political crisis in Rivers State.
Chief Samuel Horsfall also commended the federal lawmaker, Hon. Boma Goodhead for her doggedness and resilience in supporting Governor Fubara since the wake of the political crisis in the State.
Several other personalities spoke to express their support to the State Governor and urged the people to ASALGA to maintain their peaceful disposition and remain steadfast in the Simplified Movement to give the state government maximum support to continue to render good governance to Rivers people.
Highlights of the event were the inauguration of the elders and stakeholders of the Simplified Movement for the 13 Wards as well as the executive committee of the movement in Asari-Toru Local Government Area.
Amieyeofori Ibim
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