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Fubara, Celebrating A Trailblazer At 49

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His achievements are numerous, as he is a knight of St. Christopher (KSC) Order of Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion. Additionally, he holds the prestigious traditional chieftaincy title of Amaopusenibo of Opobo Kingdom. The governor’s commitment to family is evident through his marriage to Valerie Fubara, with whom he shares three beautiful children.
He had the privilege of receiving his primary education at Opobo Primary School and continued his studies at Comprehensive Secondary School, Opobo. His passion for numbers led him to pursue a degree in Accountancy at the then Rivers State University of Science and Technology, now Rivers State University.
After completing his bachelor’s degree, he furthered his education by obtaining a Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Master of Science (MSc) in Finance from the prestigious University of Port Harcourt Business School in 2013 and 2016, respectively. Fubara’s dedication to his studies and commitment to personal growth have shaped him into the accomplished individual he is today.
Sim, as he is fondly called, began his professional journey in 2003 as a principal accountant at the Rivers State Senior Secondary Schools Board. Through his dedication and hard work, he steadily climbed the ranks and assumed the role of director of finance and accounts at the State’s Government House in 2015. In March 2020, he achieved another milestone in his career by becoming the permanent secretary. His expertise and proficiency in financial matters led to his appointment as the Accountant General of Rivers State on December 23, 2020.
Siminalayi’s remarkable achievements and qualifications include being a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Management and a Fellow of the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN). Also, he is a Member, Chartered Institute of Forensic and Investigative Auditors. His exceptional track record and professional accomplishments have earned him the trust and support of many groups.
He is a philanthropy and generous humanitarian. He belongs to various professionsl bodies. Though calm and calculated, his pedigree in social interaction is deep as a peer group and community mobiliser; just as his zest in politics and political engineering is unprecedented. As a patron of Grassroots Development Initiative (GDI) in Opobo, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) did not think twice to nominate him as candidate of the party. He emerged victorious in the party’s governorship primaries for the 2023 general election.
Governor Fubara is a leader who embodies simplicity and compassion. He is patient, confident, and possesses a high sense of empathy towards the people he serves. His humility and strong faith in God make him a trustworthy leader. Representing the younger generation, Fubara leads the state with the slogan “Consolidation and Continuity of the New Rivers Vision,” aiming to build upon the achievements of former Governor, Chief Nyesom Wike. He is deeply committed to the development of a greater Rivers State, focusing on infrastructure, healthcare, education, security, agriculture, and investment opportunities, among others.
As the Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara recently made a critical move by signing a contract worth about N200billion with Julius Berger for the construction of the Port Harcourt Ring Road project. This project holds immense importance as it will span across six local government areas, connecting many communities of the state, effectively alleviating the congestion in Port Harcourt. The governor also committed to an advance payment of 75percent of the project value. With six flyovers, a major bridge, and more than 12 roundabouts, the decision on this project showcases the Governor’s commitment towards improving the infrastructure and overall development of the state.
As governors elected in the governorship elections held on March 18, 2023, across various states in Nigeria, reached their 100th day in office, Siminialayi Fubara proudly announced the successful completion of 21 road projects spanning approximately 68km. These projects were executed in multiple local governments within the state. Furthermore, Siminialayi’s administration has achieved significant milestones in sectors such as education, health, and human capital development, among others.
The governor has consistently collaborated with security agencies to maintain a relatively peaceful, safe, and secure environment for the residents, businesses, and properties within the state. Furthermore, he has ensured the timely payment of salaries and pensions to civil servants, while also making gradual progress in clearing the backlog of gratuities owed to beneficiaries. Moreover, Siminialayi has taken steps to restore water supply in the State Secretariat complex. Electricity supply has also been restored at the State Secretariat after over eight years. As a gesture of goodwill, he provided a Christmas gift of N100,000 to civil servants, which has greatly boosted their morale.
To boost the economy, generate employment opportunities, and alleviate poverty, the government has announced its plans to establish a N4billion Enterprise Fund in collaboration with the Bank of Industry. This initiative aims to support the growth of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the state. Through this Fund, both existing and aspiring MSME entrepreneurs will have easy access to credit at low interest rates, with a repayment period of up to five years. The governor is actively working towards the establishment of the Youth Entrepreneurship Development Trust Fund, which aims to foster an entrepreneurial mindset among young individuals and encourage sustainable interest in self-employment and job creation.
In adherence to the commitment he made to labour unions in the state in the face of the abrupt removal of fuel subsidy and its consequential impact on nationwide transportation costs, Sim has introduced over 17 high-end buses for intrastate transportation to mitigate the exorbitant fares incurred by commuters within the state. These buses have been efficiently transporting commuters along specified major routes in the state capital and its surrounding areas.
Fubara is a bona fide pioneer, leading the way for the future and setting an example for others to follow. He has proven himself to be a man of his word, consistently delivering on his promises and achieving remarkable results despite limited resources. Even while facing numerous challenges and attempts to undermine his efforts, both from within and outside the state, he has maintained the safety and security of the state and its businesses. As he celebrates his birthday today, even his harshest critics cannot deny that he is a worthy precursor in every sense.
Happy Birthday, His Excellency!

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Editorial

New Federal Varsity In Ogoni

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has made history by signing into law a bill that establishes the Federal Univer-
sity of Environment and Technology in Ogoni, Rivers State. This significant occasion marks a bold step forward not only for the Ogoni people but also for the Niger Delta region and Nigeria as a whole. It signifies a commitment to education, environmental sustainability, and technological advancement.
For the Ogonis, who have long been impacted by environmental challenges, the university represents a beacon of hope. It is more than just bricks and mortar; it is a symbol of empowerment and a pathway to a brighter future. This development is akin to a seed, planted with the promise of a flourishing harvest of skilled professionals.
The university’s emphasis on environmental technology is extremely important, especially given Nigeria’s climate crisis. Education plays a crucial role in developing sustainable solutions. The institution will provide students with the necessary skills and knowledge to address the environmental challenges affecting the Niger Delta region and beyond. This will have a momentous impact.
Signing the bill, the President praised the Ogoni people’s resilience and unity. He stressed that the institution would mark a “significant milestone in our national journey towards environment justice, education and sustainable development”. Tinubu said the university is a reaffirmation of his administration’s “unwavering commitment to the people of Ogoni, the Niger Delta and the nation as a whole. For decades, the Ogoni people have been at the forefront of fight for environmental restoration and sustainable development, shaping both national and global conversation of these critical issues.
“By signing this bill into law, we are taking a decisive step towards addressing historical grievances and creating new opportunities for learning, growth and prosperity. The university will serve as a centre of excellence, equipping young Nigerians with the knowledge and skill to tackle present environmental challenges, drive clean energy solutions and contribute to our national sustainable economic development.”
We commend President Tinubu for his visionary decision to establish the much-needed institution aimed at fostering development and progress. This initiative is a testament to his commitment to addressing critical social and economic knots and creating opportunities that will benefit the people. The President has laid a solid foundation for sustainable growth while demonstrating a genuine desire to empower and advance the nation’s collective interests.
In addition to his commendable action, we applaud Tinubu for initiating peace talks to bring stability and reconciliation to the troubled area. The decision to engage in constructive dialogue demonstrates a deep understanding of the relevance of inclusive governance and the role of peace in fostering meaningful development. For decades, Ogoni has endured turmoil and neglect, impeding its potential and the return of oil exploration activities.
By opening the door to peaceful negotiations, the President has made a bold and necessary move towards healing fractured relationships and fostering trust among stakeholders. This initiative holds the promise of ensuring that the voices and needs of the Ogonis are heard and respected. We urge all parties involved to seize this golden opportunity for lasting peace and progress. It is only through unity and mutual respect that the full potential of Ogoni, and by extension the nation, can be realised.
As steps are taken to acknowledge and remediate the damage caused by years of oil exploration and production, the Ogonis must reciprocate Mr. President’s gesture by fostering a climate of equanimity and stability. This will ultimately pave the way for the resumption of oil exploration and production. This is not a call to forget the past, but a pragmatic recognition that meaningful change and sustainable development require a collaborative approach.
The Federal Government has a responsibility to ensure that all academic disciplines offered by the new university are fully accredited to maintain the integrity and quality of the school. Without proper accreditation, the institution risks producing graduates who are ill-equipped to compete in the global workforce or contribute substantially to national development. Accreditation serves as a benchmark that ensures programmes meet academic standards and adhere to best practices across various fields of study.
Staff recruitment should be conducted carefully, as the individuals brought into a team can greatly influence an organisation’s performance, culture, and long-term success. The primary focus of recruitment efforts at the university should be on attracting the best candidates who possess the necessary skills, qualifications, experience, and values. Merit should be the guiding principle in decision-making throughout the hiring process, rather than favouritism or personal bias.
For a nation to thrive in the 21st century, a strong higher education system is not only desirable, but essential. Universities serve as the catalysts for innovation, the breeding grounds for future leaders, and the foundations of a knowledge-based economy. The Federal Government must acknowledge this vital role and take intentional actions to properly fund the university in Ogoni and develop infrastructure to ensure it meets international standards. Neglecting this responsibility would put its future prosperity and global competitiveness at risk.
This institution must not suffer the same fate as other federally-owned universities that have been left to decay. That will be a disservice to its purpose and potential. Many government-owned universities in the country have struggled with dilapidated infrastructure, underfunding, insufficient staffing, and interruptions caused by industrial actions due to unpaid wages or poor working conditions. These challenges have led to declining standards in education, putting both students and staff at a disadvantage. The Ogoni University must not be another victim of this worrying trend.

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Editorial

HIV, Transiting From Donor Dependence

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The initial announcement by United States President, Donald Trump, to cut funding for international
HIV/AIDS initiatives sent shockwaves through the global health community. In Nigeria, a country facing a significant HIV/AIDS burden, the potential consequences were dire. However, the subsequent waiver granted by the administration has provided a lifeline for the millions of Nigerians who rely on the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) for their treatment and support.
PEPFAR has been an important partner in Nigeria’s fight against HIV/AIDS. Since its inception in 2003, PEPFAR has committed more than $7.8 billion to the country, catering to approximately 90 per cent of HIV treatment requirements. With this funding, Nigeria has been able to enhance its HIV prevention, treatment and support services and has witnessed a reduction in HIV/AIDS deaths.
The waiver granted by the Trump administration guarantees that PEPFAR’s life-saving medicines and medical services will continue to reach the needy. Antiretrovirals (ARVs) are the most common type of medicine used to treat HIV and reduce the virus’ spread. Through the provision of ARVs, PEPFAR helps prevent the spread of HIV and enhances the quality of life of those with the condition.
Although Nigeria was recently exempted from the requirement, the signs are evident: the country has to graduate from dependence on donor funds for its HIV/AIDS control programmes. Over the years, partners including the U.S. government have been central to the provision of treatment to people living with the virus. However, it is time for Nigeria to own its national response to HIV/AIDS.
Nigeria’s HIV/AIDS burden remains critical, accounting for 10 per cent of the global total. In 2023 alone, there were 75,000 new infections and 45,000 HIV-related deaths. The battle against Mother-to-Child Transmission remains challenging, with only 35 per cent of the target 75 per cent being met. Nearly 1.7 million Nigerian children have been orphaned due to HIV. Vulnerable populations, especially women and children, continue to disproportionately suffer.
To transition away from donor dependence, a multifaceted approach is necessary. Firstly, the country must increase its domestic financing for HIV/AIDS programmes. This can be accomplished through innovative funding mechanisms, such as leveraging public-private partnerships and exploring local revenue sources. Secondly, the government needs to strengthen its healthcare system to ensure equitable access to testing, treatment, and care. This involves expanding access to antiretroviral drugs, investing in community-based models, and addressing the stigma associated with HIV.
Thirdly, Nigeria must prioritise prevention efforts. This entails promoting condom use, providing comprehensive sexual education, and increasing awareness about the risks and modes of transmission. By focusing on prevention, the country can decrease the incidence of HIV infections and ultimately lessen the burden on its healthcare system.
Finally, Nigeria should develop a sustainable human resource strategy for its HIV/AIDS response. This involves training and equipping healthcare workers, engaging community volunteers, and empowering people living with HIV to advocate for their rights. A well-trained workforce is essential for delivering high-quality services and ensuring the long-term success of the response.
The transition beyond donor dependence is a complex but necessary journey for the country. By increasing domestic financing, strengthening healthcare systems, prioritising prevention, and investing in its human resources, the country can create a sustainable and effective response to HIV/AIDS. Also, the government should consider alternative funding mechanisms, such as increased domestic funding, public-private partnerships, and philanthropic initiatives. The time to act is now, for the well-being of present and future generations.
Nigeria’s National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) has made momentous strides in combating HIV/AIDS, including expanding access to testing, treatment, and education. However, challenges persist, hindering the effectiveness of these efforts.
One major obstacle is limited access to healthcare facilities, particularly in rural areas. This impedes timely diagnosis and treatment, reducing the likelihood of optimal outcomes for those living with HIV. Additionally, stigma surrounding the disease remains a formidable barrier, preventing individuals from seeking testing and care. Inadequate awareness campaigns further contribute to low testing rates and delayed diagnosis.
Addressing these challenges requires concerted action by the government and stakeholders. Allocation of adequate funding is crucial to expand healthcare infrastructure and ensure the availability of essential services. Moreover, targeted interventions to reduce stigma and promote awareness are vital for increasing testing and early detection.
Collaboration between civil society organisations and grassroots movements is also essential for advocating for protection of HIV funding. Advocacy campaigns can mobilise public support and pressure lawmakers to prioritise the fight against HIV/AIDS. By addressing these challenges and ensuring sustainable funding, Nigeria can depend less on donor countries, drastically reduce HIV transmission, and provide the necessary care to those affected by the disease.

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Editorial

Israel-Gaza War: Sustaining The Ceasefire 

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The recent agreement between Israel and Hamas to cease hostilities marks a significant and much-anticipated step toward peace in a conflict that has devastated countless lives and infrastructure in Gaza. The ongoing violence, which has persisted for over 460 days, has yielded catastrophic human casualties and an acute humanitarian crisis. The need for a sustainable peace deal has never been more urgent, and this temporary ceasefire presents an opportunity for all stakeholders to work diligently towards a lasting resolution.
Following the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, the conflict saw a dramatic escalation. This attack was described as one of the deadliest in Israel’s history, resulting in the deaths of 1,210 individuals, primarily civilians. In addition to the loss of life, the assault led to the abduction of 251 individuals, with 94 still held hostage in Gaza, as Israeli military sources reported that 34 of them are believed to be deceased. In response, Israel’s military operations have wreaked havoc on Gaza, claiming the lives of approximately 46,788 people, most of whom are reported to be civilians.
Qatar, Egypt, and the United States have facilitated a ceasefire agreement that comprises multiple critical components. Most importantly, it calls for a halt to the violence, providing a much-needed respite for the people of Gaza. The deal also outlines the release of hostages held by Hamas and prisoners detained by Israel. Furthermore, it aims to facilitate the return of displaced Palestinians to their homes, contingent on their viability following the extensive destruction.
While this ceasefire is a welcome development, it is essential for all involved parties to remain committed to a permanent peace agreement. The underlying issues that led to the conflict must be addressed to prevent future escalations and to foster an environment of mutual respect and understanding. As the world watches, the hope is that this temporary cessation of hostilities can pave the way for a more peaceful and stable future for both Israelis and Palestinians.
The peace deal will happen in stages, starting with a six-week period for limited prisoner exchanges, partial Israeli troop withdrawal, and humanitarian aid access. Hamas has released four Israeli soldiers for over 1000 Palestinians, with more releases to come. Israel will reduce troops in Gaza and open the Rafah crossing a week later, with less troop presence in the Philadelphi Corridor and complete withdrawal by the 50th day. The next two phases will depend on how both sides act during the first phase.
Therefore, it is unacceptable for any party to attack the other during a ceasefire. Reports indicate that after a ceasefire was announced, Israel bombed Gaza, killing at least 75 people and injuring many others. This violence during a ceasefire is unacceptable. While Hamas did initiate the conflict by invading Israel, Israel’s response has been far too severe, causing massive destruction in Gaza. The situation has resulted in unprecedented loss of life and devastation in the region.
Gaza has been completely destroyed, and further risks to the truce may create the belief that Israel aims to eliminate Palestinians like Hitler did with the Jews. Israel’s aggressive actions have lost them international support. Young people in the United States and Europe are now openly supporting Palestinians. With a truce in place, hostilities should cease and all parties must honour their agreements.
Hamas, seeing itself as a resistance force, needs to change its tactics for lasting peace. Their attacks on Israel have caused great suffering for innocent people in Gaza and destroyed much of the area’s infrastructure, leading to many lost lives. Both Israel and Hamas must commit to peace and avoid restarting the conflict. Attacking Israeli civilians or soldiers will only provoke strong retaliation from the Jewish State, harming those Hamas aims to protect.
Hamas, like the defunct Palestinian Liberation Organisation (PLO), should accept peace and recognise Israel’s right to coexist, focusing on development and prosperity for Gaza. Israel unilaterally withdrew from Gaza and North Samaria on August 15, 2005, dismantling settlements and troops after an agreement with Egypt. Hamas should stop teaching hate and instead use the opportunities from this withdrawal to help the people rather than build terror infrastructure. If West Bank control is an issue, Jordan might be discussed as a potential administrator.
Should Israel decide to withdraw completely from the West Bank, it is imperative that the Palestinians residing in that region recognise their responsibility to foster a peaceful environment, similarly to how Jordan maintains a harmonious relationship with Israel. To achieve this, the Palestinian people must actively commit to rejecting violence in all its forms and manifestations.
They must understand that genuine peace is not merely the absence of conflict but requires a steadfast dedication to non-violence, coexistence, and constructive dialogue. The era of bloodshed in the area must come to an end, giving way to a future where peace can truly flourish in the West Bank, benefiting all inhabitants and paving the way for a more stable and prosperous region.
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