Rivers State Governor, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, has been hailed as the creator of modern Rivers State only comparable to the creator of the old Rivers State, Alfred Diete-Spiff.
“This is the inescapable conclusion when one takes time to study Amaechi’s feats in the infrastructure change and revolution taking place in Rivers State today that includes creating the new Port Harcourt Mega City that has one of the best modern stadiums and other edifices only obtainable in modern cities of Europe,” said the state chapter of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) while congratulating Amaechi on the occasion of his 49th birthday today.
APC, in a statement issued in Port Harcourt  yesterday by the state Chairman, Dr. Davies Ibiamu Ikanya, described Amaechi as an icon of democracy, a role model and an embodiment of development.
The party said: “For the records, Amaechi has succeeded in rescuing Rivers State from the hands of militants, whose activities made Port Harcourt “the third most dangerous city in the world as at 2007” when Amaechi took over as governor. He has since made the city investors’ haven and has placed Port Harcourt prominently on the international map as the first African city to become the World Book Capital.
“We are happy that Amaechi survived all the intricate plots to remove him from office by enemies of democracy parading themselves as Abuja politicians, and has, by so doing, become a pillar of Nigerian democracy.
“Governor Amaechi redefined the art of politics and governance in Nigeria when he introduced free education and healthcare programmes in Rivers State and within a space of five years, created over 50,000 jobs to reduce the menace of unemployment, poverty and insurgency in Nigeria.
“His administration started creating employment opportunities when he assumed office in 2007 by building over 140 primary health centres, 23 model secondary schools that can compete with any modern university in Nigeria, and over 300 model primary schools which created job opportunities in the State. Each of these projects attracts about 100 workers.
“His government has created the Banana Farms that have created jobs for over 2,000 persons, revived Risonpalm, which was dead when he came in, and has now employed over 5,000 workers. The Songhai Farm has employed over 2,000 workers, while five fish farms in strategic locations have been completed.
“His administration is perfecting measures to ensure 24 hours regular power supply in the state. In this regard, the Amaechi administration was able to build 88 sub-stations which are yet to be commissioned.
“Through the efforts of the Administration, the State is generating 545 megawatts of electricity, and also building facilities for another 180 megawatts. Before the end of this year, there will be 715 megawatts to ensure that Rivers State and her people have 24 hours uninterrupted power supply.
“We thank God for giving us  Governor  Amaechi, who has proved that he is a truly patriotic and committed leader who desires the emancipation and development of his people”. The APC Chairman said.