News
Wike Justifies Inclusive Agenda For Rivers Dev …You Can’t Wish Wike Away In PDP, Fayose Insists
Rivers State Governor, Chief Nyesom Wike, has explained the rationale behind the implementation of an inclusive development agenda for the state.
He said that while most people hardly see beyond the delivery of road projects executed by his administration, it was because the roads were more visible and would lure investors to the state.
“Why we are trying to do more of the roads is because it attracts development. If there are no roads, people will not go and build houses. If there are no roads, people will not invest.
“But when you have good network of roads, such will encourage people who want to invest in the state to do so.”
Wike gave the explanation at the inauguration of the Community Secondary School, Obuama (Harry’s Town) in Degema Local Government Area, which was performed by the former Ekiti State Governor, Ayo Fayose, last Friday.
He stressed that his administration has also given sufficient development attention to improving structures, teaching and learning facilities in the education sector.
“All through this week, we have been busy trying to, and letting the people understand what we are doing in the education sector.
“Before, people were saying is it only roads we are doing. Since Monday, we have been talking about tertiary education. Now, we are talking about basic education.
“By the time we finish, we will also go to the health sector, and let the state see what we have done in that sector.
“So, for me, it is touching all-round the sectors because no one sector can be said to be more important than the other.”
Wike explained that it was his Deputy, Dr. Ipalibo Harry Banigo, who called his attention to the poor state of the community school in Obuama, and he immediately directed for a total upgrade of the structures and learning facility.
“To God be glory, we have been able to put in our best to make it a proper secondary school that our children will not only have access to education, but also have quality education.
“I’m sure by the time you take your time after this event, to go round the premises and see some of the structures, you will be quite convinced of the quality that we have been able to put in place.
“And so, we are happy that we are here. This terrain is waterlogged; actually, it will be difficult if you don’t do concrete pavement like this. If you want to asphalt it, I don’t think it will last long. But with this concrete they’ve done, I’m sure it’s going to last long.”
Speaking further, Wike directed the Ministry of Special Projects to, within the next two weeks, provide him with an architectural design for the building of two hostels, one for boys and the other for female students at the school.
“Since it is mixed school, do design, one for boys and one for the girls. Then, there will be a dining hall for them. Since you have provided accommodation for the teachers, then, there should be hostels for the students.”
Inaugurating the project, former Ekiti State Governor, Ayo Fayose, commended Wike for doing so much in providing quality infrastructure that has raised the quality of living of Rivers people.
Fayose also spoke on the current crisis in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and stated that most people think that they must destroy leaders before they can rise, which is hardly possible.
He noted that the PDP presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, does not hate Wike, but a lot of people around him were the enemies creating tension.
“For me, I want to believe that Atiku Abubakar is not against you. But let me say this quickly, a lot of people surrounding the throne are enemies of the throne.
“A lot of people surrounding the throne have one axe to grind with somebody, or some issues with somebody, and they take it to where they’re not supposed to take it.”
Fayose reiterated the need for Atiku to work to unify the party so that everybody can focus on how to win the 2023 presidential election.
He noted that it was impossible to wish Wike away, adding that anybody doing so, was the real enemy of the party.
“There is no living person in the party and outside this party that will not acknowledge your contribution to this party. You are the soul of this party.
“Rivers State has been here for long, but today, we can see the difference. The average Rivers man is proud to be from Rivers. They’re proud to say you’re their governor.
“Forget whatever anybody says about you. I’ve said it before, Wike, the man with a fierce look but a good heart, the heart of love, to accomplish and give support.
“The majority of our enemies today are not against you because of anything but against you because you have capacity; they’re against you because they know that when you take over, they will fall apart”.
He further urged those close to the presidential candidate to desist from creating disaffection, and allow him to unify the party as the 2023 general election draws near.
“Wike has not come out to say that Atiku Abubakar is not the presidential candidate. He is! I was there the second day after the election when our candidate, the former vice president visited the residence of Wike.
“We had mutual conversation. We were all happy. Everything was in place to move forward. I spoke at that meeting. But I don’t want to aggravate this situation. I’m only appealing to people that matter.
“In every political party, there will be grouping: The same family, but different interests. We can do better than we are doing. People around the corridor of power, please, allow this candidate to win election. We don’t celebrate victory until it is ours.”
In his description of the project, Rivers State Commissioner for Special Projects, Deinma Iyalla, said there are two blocks of two-storey of 12 classrooms, one model storey building of 12 classrooms, a storey building as administrative block, library, ICT and science laboratories, quarters for senior and junior principals and staff.
In his address, Rivers State Commissioner for Education, Prof. Chinedu Mmom, said no industrial action has been witnessed under Wike.
So far, Mmom noted, the state government has improved over 125 educational facilities in the primary, secondary and tertiary learning cadre; sustained the free basic education policy; sponsored about 29,250 students to write Basic Certificate Examination; and 39,750 students for NECO and WAEC.
The Rivers State chapter of the All Progressives Congress Christian Leaders Forum has expressed strong confidence in the capacity of All Progressives Congress (All Progressives Congress) candidates in the state to deliver effective governance if elected into office in the coming elections.
The State Coordinator of the forum, Archbishop Lucky Aroh, made this known during a breakfast and thanksgiving meeting held in Port Harcourt, where leaders gathered to pray for the stability of the party and the safety of its candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections.According to him, the meeting was convened to seek divine intervention for peace, unity, and security among APC candidates across Rivers State.
“Today we are praying for APC stability in Rivers State and the security of our candidates that have been elected to contest the 2027 elections. It is a breakfast meeting,” Aroh said.
He further expressed optimism that the party’s candidates would not disappoint the people if entrusted with leadership responsibilities.
“They will not fail when elected into office. We are here as fathers of the land to let them know, and I must tell you the truth that these are the authentic people that will do well in Rivers State,” he added.
Speaking earlier, the National Chairman of the forum, Professor Olanrewaju Abraham, commended the Rivers State chapter for organizing the programme, noting that the national body of the forum believes strongly in the power of prayer.
He stated that political leadership provides an opportunity to influence society positively, including advancing moral and spiritual values, while expressing confidence that APC candidates at all levels would emerge victorious in the upcoming elections.
Also speaking, the Rivers State Women Leader of the APC, Hon. Darling Amadi, praised the forum for its commitment to prayers for peace, stability, and the protection of party candidates.
Represented by the Deputy Women Leader of the party in the state, she described the initiative as commendable and urged other political and support groups within the party to emulate the gesture in promoting unity and stability.
By: John Bibor, Menebe Emmanuel & Fortune Paibi
Prominent businessman and philanthropist, Elder Anthony Osagwe-Ogo, was celebrated in grand style as he marked his 70th birthday anniversary, with distinguished Nigerians, business leaders, and golf enthusiasts gathering to honour his remarkable contributions to society.
The colourful celebration took place at the Port Harcourt Golf Club, where friends, associates, and well-wishers converged to pay tribute to the revered elder statesman.
Chairman of the occasion, High Chief (Dr.) Ikenna Okafor, described the celebrant as a detribalised Nigerian whose generosity, humility, and commitment to humanity have earned him admiration across different communities and backgrounds.
According to Dr. Okafor, Pa Osagwe-Ogo’s impact on society and the development of his community remains unparalleled. He noted that members of the golfing community are proud to be associated with a father figure who consistently promotes the welfare and well-being of those around him.
He further stated that the history and growth of the Port Harcourt Golf Club cannot be told without acknowledging the significant role played by the celebrant, whose wisdom, encouragement, and leadership have helped sustain the club over the years.
“We are here to celebrate a man who has impacted humanity positively, a peace-loving individual and an epitome of hope for the younger generation. We pray to emulate his virtues. Today, we celebrate a bridge-builder, a trailblazer, and an iconic leader whose life continues to inspire many,” Dr. Okafor said.
He expressed delight at the large turnout of guests from various walks of life, describing it as a testament to the respect and affection Pa Osagwe-Ogo commands within and beyond Rivers State.
In his response, the celebrant, Pa Anthony Osagwe-Ogo, expressed profound gratitude to God for preserving his life and granting him the privilege of attaining the milestone age of 70.
He also thanked members of the Port Harcourt Golf Club, family members, friends, and associates for identifying with him during the celebration and for their unwavering support over the years.
The event featured the cutting of the birthday cake, presentation of awards to deserving members of the club, goodwill messages, and moments of celebration among guests.
The ceremony was attended by notable personalities from the business community, the golfing fraternity, and other sectors, all of whom joined in celebrating the life and legacy of the respected elder statesman.
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, and the Permanent Secretary of the Rivers State Ministry of Information and Communications, Dr. Honour Kuru Sirawoo, have been honoured with awards of recognition in connection with the 2026 Democracy Day celebrations held in Port Harcourt.
The awards, which formed part of activities marking Nigeria’s Democracy Day on June 12, were formally presented on Tuesday at the Ministry of Information and Communications in Port Harcourt.
Presenting the awards was Hon. Abdul Hameed Oladipupo Alli, popularly known as “Mr. Nigeria,” Publisher of Asiwaju Trumpet Magazine and Achievers World International Magazine.
Governor Fubara was recognised for his efforts in sustaining peace, stability, and a conducive political atmospherJohn Bibor / Menebe Emmanuel / Fortune Paibie in Rivers State. The organisers noted that his administration has fostered harmony and strengthened civic participation across the state.
Dr. Sirawoo, on the other hand, was honoured for his exemplary administrative leadership and significant contributions to effective information management within the Ministry of Information and Communications.
Representing Dr. Sirawoo at the presentation ceremony, Dr. Christian Davies received the award on his behalf and expressed gratitude for the recognition. He described the honour as a reflection of Dr. Sirawoo’s unwavering commitment to professionalism, excellence, and dedicated public service.
Dr. Davies assured the organisers that the award would be formally conveyed to the Permanent Secretary.
The event also featured the presentation of commemorative publications highlighting major governance and civic milestones in Rivers State, including Easter celebrations, Workers’ Day activities, the Governor’s third anniversary in office, and Democracy Day programmes.
Organisers of the awards commended the Rivers State administration for what they described as sustained peace, political stability, and improved civic engagement, noting that these achievements have contributed significantly to the state’s continued development.
By: Jessica Sambol
-
Niger Delta2 days agoWarri Airport Manager Disputes Air Peace Bird Strike Claim
-
News2 days agoNigeria Won’t Surrender Any Territory To Criminals -Tinubu
-
News2 days agoFG Begins Trial Of Over 600 Terrorism Suspects
-
Rivers2 days ago79th IAUE Inaugural Lecture: Prof Anero Advoctes Tuition-Free Education For Children
-
Politics2 days agoParties’ Deregistration: How Justice Lifu Overruled Appeal Court Justices
-
Politics2 days agoADC: Okonkwo Rejects Amaechi As Presidential Running Mate, Withdraws Support
-
Politics2 days ago2027: Tinubu’s Projects Give APC Edge In South East – Yilwatda
-
News2 days agoRivers Judges Commence Annual Vacation, July 20