Featured
Nigeria @64: We’ll Not Surrender To Barefaced Blackmail – Fubara …Lauds President Tinubu’s Robust Economic Reforms …•Promises To Always Put Rivers People First
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has declared that his administration will not surrender to barefaced blackmail while committing to consolidating on the gains made in ensuring the peace, advancing good governance, delivering more critical projects, and sustaining the increase in the Internally Generation Revenue (IGR) of the State.
The Governor also commended President Bola Tinubu, for his bold, dynamic and pragmatic economic reforms targetted at correcting the structural deformities of the past, and ushering Nigeria into a new vista of sustainable economic growth and prosperity.
Governor Fubara spoke on Tuesday during the 64th Nigerian Independence Day Anniversary Parade that at the Government House Arcade in Port Harcourt.
The Governor said 1st October in 1960 was historic with the first Prime Minister of Nigeria, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa raising Nigeria’s much cherished green-white-green flag to signify the independence and freedom gained from the British colonial rule.
Thereafter, Governor Fubara noted that there has been heroic sacrifices by founding fathers, other leaders, brave men and women, who had made numerous achievements in sustaining freedom and promoting the unity and progress of Nigeria.
He said, “The vision of our founding fathers at independence was to build a united and secure nation anchored on the values of brotherhood, democracy, justice, and the equality of all peoples, tribes and nations.
“Our leaders, past and present, have kept on doing their best to keep the country together and advance the progress and well-being of the citizens.”
Despite those sacrifices, Governor Fubara said that Nigeria still totters amid diverse challenges, including widespread human insecurity, after 64 years of self-rule.
Governor Fubara pointed to the prevailing economic hardship that has made life more difficult for most Nigerians, and stressed, “But, despite the economic hardship and social ills bedevilling our nation and stifling its progress, we still have good reasons to celebrate and be grateful to God as a nation and people.
“We are known all over the world as hardworking, confident and happy people. We are known for our enormous natural and human resources and economic potential.
“We are also known for our rich cultural diversity – a vibrant nation where different religions, languages and traditions co-exist peacefully.”
Governor Fubara urged Nigerians to be thankful that God has endowed them with everything required to build a great nation where no one should ever be oppressed, and where all should live in peace and plenty.
The Governor said, it is, therefore, important for Nigerians to keep faith with the vision of the founding leaders and do so by reaffirming their fidelity to one indivisible nation under God, and pledge themselves to each other in freedom, peace, and justice.
“Let us also commit ourselves to work hand in hand with the Federal Government to tackle the economic, social, and political challenges, including judicial terrorism, nepotism, corruption, and abuse of power, that have diminished our democracy, stifled our economic growth, and caused untold hardship to our people.
“With an unyielding commitment to democracy, the rule of law, and good governance, and working together for the common interest, we can overcome all our challenges, and prevail over the enemies of progress.”
Governor Fubara believed that it is only through the collective efforts of Nigerians that Nigeria can become the greatest black nation and reckoned as the global leader in human civilization so desired.
The Rivers State Governor commended President Bola Tinubu for being bold and determined to drive his economic reforms, which are targetted at correcting the structural deformities of the past.
He explained, “I urge fellow Governors to redouble their efforts to fight the scourge of insecurity and banditry in the North, and pipeline vandalism and oil theft in the Niger Delta region of the country, for the ongoing economic reforms to bear the needed positive results.
“On our part, we assure the Federal Government and Mr President of unalloyed loyalty and support from the Government and good people of Rivers State, and reaffirm our commitment to the unity and progress of Nigeria as one indivisible nation.
“We will continue to support and work with the Federal Government and the security agencies to advance the security and well-being of all citizens, protect national economic assets and guarantee the security and smooth operations of local, national, and multinational companies and investments in our State.”
Governor Fubara assured that his administration will work assiduously to ensure the safety and security of lives and property while guaranteeing equal social and economic opportunities for all residents of Rivers State.
He expressed strong faith and strength in God, who only, is able to strengthen his administration to sustain efforts at promoting, protecting, and defending the political, social and economic interests of Rivers State, at all cost.
He added, “I further assure you that we will never compromise on our commitments to delivering the dividends of democracy and good governance to the citizens of Rivers State.
“We will complete the Port Harcourt Ring Road, the Ikwerre-Emohua-Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni link dual carriageway, and all other ongoing road projects on schedule. We will also deliver the N225billion Trans-Kalabari Road before the end of our first term.
“We are giving considerable attention to education with the rehabilitation of schools, provision of educational materials, implementation of 65-year teachers’ retirement age, and approval for the recruitment of more teachers in line with the recommendations of the Needs Assessment Committee Report.”
Governor Fubara said remodelling, expansion and construction work has progressed to level of completion on the Zonal Hospitals at Ahoada, Bori, Degema, Omoku, and the General Hospital at Bonny.
He also explained that work has started on the new General Hospital in Rumuigbo community with work on the new ultra-modern Psychiatric Hospital, also at Rumuigbo, in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, intensifying.
Governor Fubara said: “Our efforts in healthcare manpower development have resulted in the full accreditation of the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital for six special programmes, including surgery, plastic reconstruction surgery, urology, radiodiagnosis, and orthopaedics from the West African College of Surgeons.
“We have made considerable improvements in internal revenue generation and set up the Rivers State Investment Promotion Agency to drive the industrialisation of the State to create jobs and generate more economic opportunities and revenues for citizens and the State.
“Agriculture for food security, job creation, and empowerment and other areas of interest, including transportation, youth skills tooling, the blue economy, and micro, small, and medium enterprises development, will receive serious and dedicated attention going forward.”
Governor Fubara extended appreciation to men and officers of the Armed Forces for their services of bravery and worthy sacrifice in defending the collective freedom, unity and security of the nation.
He particularly appreciated the Police, the Department of State Services, and other security agencies for their sacrifices and contributions to internal peace, security, and stability of Rivers State.
He stressed, “I also thank and appreciate the good people of Rivers State and Nigerians across the country for your support and standing with us on the side of courage, truth and justice from the inception of our government to date.
“I assure you that we will never surrender to barefaced lies and blackmail from anyone, no matter how powerful he may be, but remain focused and re-dedicated to the interest of the nation, our dear Rivers State and the cause of our people,” he added.
Featured
We’re Working To Improve Quality Of Life Of Rivers People -Fubara …As Taraba Gov Inaugurates 6.55km Okania-Ogbogoro-Mgbaraja Roads Project
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has reiterated the commitment of his administration to render quality service that will improve the quality of life of residents, and strengthen the platform to promote unity.
Governor Fubara gave the assurance at the Okania-Ogbogoro Road junction, venue of the inauguration of the 6.55km Okania-Ogbogoro-Mgbaraja (and Mgbuoba) Roads project in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, yesterday.
The road cuts across Okania community through Ogbogoro, and connects Port Harcourt Ring Road project under construction, and was inaugurated by the Taraba State Governor, Dr Agbu Kefas.
Governor Fubara said that during the campaigns, he saw the roads in terrible condition, made a promise to fix them, and noted that that promise has been kept.
He emphasised that his administration will never be reckoned with abandoning of projects that it started, which is why he is particularly excited that the road has been fixed to ease the inconveniences suffered by the people.
The Governor said, “What we are doing here today is very simple: Promise made, promise fulfilled. I told you that whatever we are going to start, we are not going to leave it halfway. So, we have come here this afternoon to fulfill that promise.
“I am so excited, and I am so happy. I am leaving here with so much joy that we have done something that has so much impact, and importance in the lives of our people. So, I feel very fulfilled. Government is about the people. Government is knowing, understanding and seeing what you can do to make life easy for your people.
“We understand the situation of this road. Fortunately, I have a few friends who also live around here. So, there is nothing you will say that I don’t know. As a government, we will continue to do those things we know will make life easy for you.”
The Governor thanked members of the communities in the area for their support to his administration, and also for cooperating with the contractor to ensure completion of the project.
He assured the people that their request for the rehabilitation of the Community Secondary School and Health Centre, will be looked at and addressed immediately, saying, “Our government is a government that takes the interest of our people very seriously.
“There is no government without the people. It is only the people that keep the government going. So, what we will continue to do is to make sure that the problems and interest of our people are top on our list,” he assured.
Performing the inauguration, Taraba State Governor, Dr Agbu Kefas, said roads are not just physical infrastructure but represent a commitment to facilitate ease of transportation, boost local commercial activities and improve quality of lives for the people of Rivers State.
Dr Kefas noted that Governor Fubara has provided the people good roads, and like other good roads, it will serve as an artery of development, further connecting communities, enhancing access to essential services while unlocking economic potentials.
He said, “By completing this project, Your Excellency has, once again, demonstrated the transformative impact of visionary leadership. When I was coming in with the Governor on a ride, I saw the joy, the happiness of the voiceless people who were abandoned and neglected in this area, coming out to wave and welcome us.
“It wasn’t a hired crowd. Everybody, those who couldn’t make it to this place, in front of their homes, they were waving at us, and I was telling the Governor: this is all about good governance. He listened to the people, and solved their problems. So, it shows that he is doing the right thing, and I want to thank you, my brother, for what you are doing for the good people, especially the poor people even in difficult times.”
Governor Kefas further said: “As we celebrate this milestone, I am reminded of the importance of collaboration and shared vision among us as Governors. Together, we can inspire our people, improve their lives, and create lasting legacies in our respective states.”
Providing the project description, the State Commissioner for Works, Barrister Elloka Tasie-Amadi, recalled that when it was flagged-off in May, 2024, the project was for a 5km stretch but was extended in October, to include Mgbaraja axis, increasing the length to 6.55km, explaining that the 10.3 meter wide, and 5km of drains road, has now linked Apara Kingdom to Nkpor Kingdom.
In his address, Chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Amb Chijioke Ihunwo, described the road as a very significant route that was abandoned for years until Governor Fubara intervened and fixed it, promising that Obio/Akpor people will not take the gestures of the State Government under Governor Fubara for granted.
Speaking on behalf of China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), the firm that handled the project, Eric Shen, said they are happy to be part of the infrastructure development strides of Governor Fubara, stating that though the rains posed significant challenge, they have delivered quality road network to serve the connectivity needs of the people.
Featured
We’ll Implement Judicial Commission’s Report On Arson, Killings -Fubara …Says Such Violence Must Stop In Rivers
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has assured of implementing the recommendations of the report submitted to him by the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into the Arson, Killings, and Wanton Destruction of Property at some local government council headquarters on or around Monday, October 7, 2024.
Governor Fubara gave the assurance when the seven-member commission, led by the Chairman, Justice Ibiwengi Roseline Minakiri, submitted four volumes of reports of their investigation and recommendations to him at Government House in Port Harcourt, yesterday.
The Governor declared that his administration will neither tolerate nor allow such level of violence in the State anymore because it is not profitable or productive.
He said, “We are not going to be part of any system that would encourage any destruction in this State. And for that reason, we had to inaugurate this commission, so that this commission should look into the remote and immediate causes of this problem.
“And I believe that the recommendations of this commission, with the help of God and the support of everyone, we will make sure that we implement the recommendations.”
Governor Fubara said: “We are going to take it to the next stage. The report will be presented to the Executive Council, and there, we will surely come out with the White Paper and with the White Paper. I can assure you, we are going to follow it to the end.
“Nobody is above the law, including me. So, provided what we are doing is within the confines of the law, we will do it with the help of every one.”
Governor Fubara recalled how, before 2014, a group of persons had ran wide recklessly in the State, burning down court buildings.
He noted that it is such persons, who had recently surfaced with their destructive tendencies, and have extended the violence to local government councils, killing people and destroying government property.
Governor Fubara wondered why somebody will spend so much money to build a structure intended to last as legacy of the administration but would eventually be part of its destruction in the name of politics.
Governor Fubara clarified that he has never been part of such destructive politics that continue to set the State backwards and frustrate progressive development strides.
Governor Fubara said: “I make bold to say it, I have never been and will never be a party to anything that will bring shame, disgrace, destruction to our dear State.
“It is our State. If it is well with us, it will be well with everybody. As a matter of fact, why should I encourage destruction, when I know that when you finish spoiling things, you still need money to rebuild them.
“I am an accountant, I know the importance of how we can manage money. Rather than spoil, you should use that money to do a new thing for the State.”
Governor Fubara vowed: “So, I am going to ensure that we put a stop to that level of violence or such unreasonable violence. I call it unreasonable violence because it doesn’t mean anything in politics.
“Politics is a business of interest. There is no permanent friend, no permanent enemy. Some persons who were not even in our support, today, they are here following us because their interest is the most important thing.
“Likewise tomorrow, if the interest changes, they will also go their different ways. So, why burn down the house?”
Governor Fubara thanked members of the commission for being bold, focused, and accomplishing their task with determination in the face of physical and legal threats.
In her presentation, Chairman of the seven-member Judicial Commission of Inquiry, Justice Ibiwengi Roseline Minakiri, said they had put their findings into four volumes, including the recommendations.
Justice Minakiri explained: “We have here four volumes of the report. We have the memoranda, which is the memoranda we got after we made our publications.
“We also have the exhibits that came with the memoranda. We have the proceedings and the records. At the end of the day, we came up with the main report.”
Justice Minakiri advised that the recommendations of the report should be studied and implemented so that people can be deterred from such callous acts and the sought-after peace secured for the State.
Featured
We Are Eager To Showcase The Best Of Rivers State -Fubara …Declares Federation Of Public Service Games Open
The Rivers State Government says it is committed to providing a memorable experience for all delegates participating in the Federation of Public Service Games(FEPSGA) hosted by the State Government.
Governor Siminalayi Fubara stated this during the opening Ceremony of the 43rd Edition, Public Service Games, titled ”Simplified Rivers 2024″, at Sharks Stadium, Port Harcourt, last Sunday.
Speaking through his Deputy, Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu, Governor Fubara said “Our hospitality is renowned and we are eager to showcase the best of Rivers State. From top-notch facilities to a secure environment, we have everything in place to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for all participants.”
Governor Fubara said to ensure the success of the games his Administration has put in place comprehensive plans and preparations with four venues approved for the events which include the Sharks Stadium, Alfred Diette -Spiff Civic Centre, Port Harcourt Club and the University of Port Harcourt.
The State Chief Executive urged participants to remember that the true spirit of FEPSGA goes beyond winning medals, stressing that it is about building bridges of friendship, fostering a sense of community and celebrating our diversity.
According to him, we envision a public service that is more productive, more efficient and more effective, a future where public servants are empowered to deliver exceptional results driven by a culture of excellence, innovation and teamwork.
The Governor reiterated that while a healthy mind and body are essential for high productivity, regular physical activity boosts our mood, increases energy levels and enhances our cognitive function. We are eager to showcase the best of Rivers State. From top-notch facilities to a secure environment.
In her address Head of the Civil Service of the Federation Mrs Didi Esther Walson-Jack, who spoke through Dr.(Mrs) Magdalene Ajani, Permanent Secretary in the Federal Ministry of Interior Commended Governor Fubara for hosting this year’s event, and for his dedication to promoting sports and fostering unity in the country.
She noted that the event which serves as a platform for furthering unity, camaraderie and sportsmanship amongst public servants, was a celebration of their shared commitment to excellence, resilience and service to the nation.
Also speaking the National President of the Federation of Public Service Games (FEPSGA), Comrade Amaebi Aloku, said Rivers State got the nod to host the annual event because the Federation was pleased with the vision of Governor Fubara in identifying with the needs of the Civil Servants in the State, in terms of their welfare and being one of the first State to implement the new minimum wage and even taking it above what was approved by the national.
Earlier the Head of Service Rivers State, Dr George Nwaeke had welcomed all participants to the State and expressed gratitude to the Governor for approving and making available the resources to host the games, noting that it was an opportunity to interact with all Civil Servants across the nation.
-
Business5 days ago
Free Meter Distribution: FG Deducts N700bn From Federation Account
-
Rivers5 days ago
RSG Gives Illegal Dump Site Operators Quit Notice
-
News20 hours ago
Engage Violence-Free Approach In Quest For Equity, Justice, Fubara Tells IYC
-
Nation17 hours ago
Bill To Enforce Local Processing Of Raw Materials Scales 2nd Reading …Set to Boost Local Industries
-
News5 days ago
FG Partners Pakistan To Boost Food Security
-
Sports4 days ago
FEPSGA: Rivers Female Gold medalist Applauded Gov Fubara Over Hosting
-
Women19 hours ago
The Transformative Power Of The Girl Child
-
News5 days ago
One Killed, Suspects Arrested As Gombe Youths, Herdsmen Clash