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Doctors’ Quarters, Rex Lawson Centre: Promises Kept

It all started after the dilapidated old Doctors Quarters was gutted by fire. The fire incident compromised the lone building which housed senior medical professionals.
Governor Nyesom Wike led top government officials for an on-the-spot assessment. It was obvious that the integrity of the building had been compromised. Nothing could be salvaged. Governor Wike ordered the immediate relocation of the doctors to high level Government Guest Houses and pledged to build an ultra-modern quarters for them.
In fulfillment of this pledge, Governor Wike on 13th of February, 2017 invited then Acting President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo , to flag off the construction of the Doctors Quarters at the Braithwaite Specialist Memorial Hospital (BSMH), Port Harcourt.
Whilst laying the foundation stone for the Doctors Quarters , Professor Osinbajo, said that the doctors quarters would help in repositioning medicare in the state.
He said: “It is my special privilege to lay this foundation stone of this doctors quarters at the Braithwaite Specialist Memorial Hospital.
“It is very special because this is a special contribution to the creation of access to healthcare in the country. And especially the welfare of doctors who do the commendable work of ensuring the health of the people”
The Acting President declared: “I lay this stone to the glory of God, the welfare of the good people of Rivers State and the country at large”.
In his address at that event, Governor Wike declared his commitment to the provision of quality facilities in hospitals across the state.
He said: “For me, my engagement with the people is premised on the provision of projects across the state. In Rivers State, it is projects, projects and projects. We shall not deviate.”
Governor Wike said that the objective of the project is to restore the existing accommodation and expand it to accommodate more specialist doctors serving at the BMSH.
He noted that the quarters has over 40 units of luxury three bedroom flats with a community canteen and dedicated water facility.
Since that foundation laying ceremony, Governor Wike has made the supervision of the project a daily affair. Sometimes, he inspects with the media, at other times, he goes alone.
Two of the structures are completely near, while the third has been re-modelled for use by the doctors.
From the first block laid by Vice President Osinbajo, the doctors Quarters has emerged as an imposing structure. A beauty to behold!
The Doctors Quarters at the BSMH is yet another confirmation of the commitment of Governor Wike to quality healthcare for Rivers people. This administration is developing the personnel and facilities for optimum performance.
Shortly, the Mother and Child Hospital in Port Harcourt will come on stream, just as the College of Medical Sciences at the Rivers State University is nearing completion. The zonal hospital at Degema, Bori, Eberi and Ahoada are all in the offing. There are 13 General Hospitals that have been reconstructed and equipped. They are awaiting commissioning.
The administration is also equipping and upgrading the entire BSMH to make it a teaching hospital for the Rivers State University. This project is almost completed.
Healthcare delivery is one of the cornerstones of the transformational agenda of Governor Wike in the last three years. The people in all the 23 local government areas have been reached with properly designed projects and programmes aimed at changing their fortunes. Little wonder everyone is singing one song – Governor Wike will consolidate the gains of visionary leadership till 2023.
Meanwhile, it is said that culture is the way of life of a people. The Rex Lawson Cultural Centre was initiated for that purpose, to promote the culture, tradition and philosophy of Rivers people.
It was situated at the heart of the Old Port Harcourt Township. Granted, it was started by the immediate past administration, but in their character, they abandoned this laudable project after three years of block work.
They stopped the funding of the project and channelled all resources to funding APC National Campaign. Therefore, the minimal structure they had erected became a robbers hide-out and security threat to the Old Port Harcourt Township. It was embarrassing that the Rotimi Amaechi administration neglected this project despite the huge resources at her disposal.
Upon assumption of office, Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, called for the project situation report. Upon evaluation, he invited the contractor for negotiation. The negotiation led to the return of the contractor to site.
Governor Wike directed the dedicated funding of the Rex Lawson Cultural Centre and backed the funding of the project by regular supervision visits to the site. These supervision visits ensured the timely completion of the edifice. It was delivered after 120 days of sustained construction.
Considered as the best cultural centre in the South of the Sahara, the Rex Lawson Cultural Centre has exciting modern facilities to promote arts, culture and tradition.
The Rivers State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Mrs Tonye Oniyide, explained the situation thus: “A structure like this that could not be delivered for eight years due to irregular funding was delivered in 120 days.
Facilities at the edifice include: international standing lighting, sound project systems, ambience simulator, artitistic environment, all structured for outstanding cultural pleasure.
According to the commissioner, the Rex Lawson Cultural Centre has a touch of French, British and American architecture, steeped in traditional Nigerian planning. The international outlook is designed to stage national and international events at the facility.
To optimise pleasurable experience, the cultural centre has an ice cream bay, popcorn centre, restaurant, 4000 gallon water reservoir, governor’s lounge, light projector system, fire room, 48 restrooms, central air-conditions, 1200 square metre stage and 1800 sitting capacity.
Fundamentally, this facility has changed the landscape of old Port Harcourt Township. Governor Wike stated that by reason of its completion, a profound urban renewal will take place in the adjoining area. To begin with, the popular Dame Patience Jonathan Road (former Creek Road) has been reconstructed. The Bonny-Bille-Nembe Jetty is almost completed. The Creek Road Market is already being designed.
There is the job component of the Rex Lawson cultural centre. The Rivers State Government has resolved to lease out the management of the edifice for the creation of employment opportunities and sustainability .
The beauty of the Cultural Centre was highlighted shortly after the project was commissioned by the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi . Artistes displayed their artistry on stage to the admiration of a select audience.
All the facilities were put in motion for the viewing pleasure of the select audience. For 40 minutes, performing artistes, comedians and musicians exhibited their talents.
Commissioning the project, Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, lauded the Rivers State Governor for promoting culture, tourism and tradition through the Rex Lawson Cultural Centre.
He praised Governor Wike for working for the ordinary people, a situation which has made him very close to the people.
He said that he was proud to be associated with Governor Wike because of the governor’s love for Rivers people. He urged other governors to emulate him.
“Your Excellency, God will continue to be with you. God will continue to be with the good people of Rivers State. How many leaders can execute and commission projects so close to the people? How many leaders can stand tall and speak so close to the people.
“Today, I am very proud to be associated with Mr Projects, the governor of Rivers State for the love he has for his people. I want other governors to learn from him”, the Ooni of Ife said.
Ebonyi State Governor, Engr David Umahi, who witnessed the commissioning of the cultural centre declared that he would replicate same in Abakiliki.
Governor Wike said that his administration’s decision to complete the project stems from its relevance to the promotion of culture and tradition.
Upon renaming the edifice, Governor Wike outlined why the State government chose to honour Rex Lawson.
He explained that the new name is to immortalise the legendary musician whose music promoted Rivers State and brought joy to the people. Rex Lawson is best known for quality highlife songs that ruled the airwaves for many years.
Governor Wike noted that the cultural centre was abandoned by the Amaechi administration, but his administration resolved to complete the project because of its importance to the State.
The Rex Lawson Cultural Centre represents Governor Wike’s commitment to the comprehensive development of the State. From sports to infrastructure and education and from healthcare to judiciary and now cultural development, Governor Wike has shown that Rivers State will accommodate all shades in the evolution of a New Rivers State.
Nwakaudu is Special Assistant to Rivers State Governor on Electronic Media.
Simeon Nwakaudu
Featured
Rivers A Strategic Hub for Nigeria’s Blue Economy -Ibas …Calls For Innovation-Driven Solutions

The Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral (Rtd.) Ibok-Ete Ibas, has emphasized the need for innovation-driven strategies, strategic partnerships, and firm policy implementation to fully harness the vast potential of the blue economy.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by participants of Study Group 7 of the Executive Course 47 from the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) at Government House, Port Harcourt, on Monday, Ibas highlighted the importance of diversifying Nigeria’s economy beyond oil by leveraging maritime resources to create jobs, enhance food security, strengthen climate resilience, and generate sustainable revenue.
The Administrator, according to a statement by his Senior Special Adviser on Media, Hector Igbikiowubo, noted that with coordinated efforts and innovative solutions, the blue economy could serve as a catalyst for inclusive growth, economic stability, and long-term environmental sustainability.
“It is estimated that a fully developed blue economy could generate over $296 million annually for Nigeria, spanning fisheries, shipping and logistics, marine tourism, offshore renewable energy, aquaculture, biotechnology, and coastal infrastructure,” he stated.
“We must transition from extractive practices to regenerative, inclusive, and innovation-driven solutions. This requires political cohesion, intergovernmental collaboration, robust infrastructure, and institutional capacity—all of which must be pursued with urgency and intentionality,” he added.
Ibas urged sub-national governments, particularly coastal states, to domesticate the national blue economy framework and develop tailored strategies that reflect their comparative advantages.
He stressed that such efforts must be guided by disciplined planning, regulation, and investment to maximize the sector’s potential.
Highlighting Rivers State’s pivotal role, the Administrator outlined its strategic advantages as follows:
•Nearly 30% of Nigeria’s total coastline (approximately 853km)
•Over 40% of Nigeria’s crude oil and gas output
•More than 33% of the country’s GDP and foreign exchange earnings
•416 of Nigeria’s 1,201 oil wells, many located in marine environments
•Two of Nigeria’s largest seaports, two oil refineries, and the Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) terminal in Bonny Island—one of Africa’s most advanced gas facilities
Despite these opportunities, Ibas acknowledged challenges such as pollution, coastal erosion, illegal oil refining, unregulated fishing, inadequate infrastructure, and maritime insecurity.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to institutional reforms, coastal zone management, and inter-agency collaboration to build a governance structure that supports a sustainable blue economy.
“Sustainability must be embedded in our development models from the outset, not as an afterthought. We are actively exploring partnerships in maritime education, aquaculture development, port modernization, and renewable ocean energy. We welcome knowledge-sharing engagements like this to refine our strategies and enhance implementation,” he said.
He urged the NIPSS delegation to ensure their findings translate into actionable recommendations that address the sector’s challenges.
Leader of the delegation, Vice Admiral A.A. Mustapha, explained that the visit aligns with their strategic institutional tour mandate on the 2025 theme: “Blue Economy and Sustainable Development in Nigeria: Issues, Challenges, and Opportunities.”
The group is engaging stakeholders to deepen understanding of policy efforts and institutional roles in advancing sustainable development through the blue economy.
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INEC To Unveil New Party Registration Portal As Applications Hit 129

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced that it has now received a total of 129 applications from associations seeking registration as political parties.
The update was provided during the commission’s regular weekly meeting held in Abuja, yesterday.
According to a statement signed by the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, seven new applications were submitted within the past week, adding to the previous number.
“At its regular weekly meeting held today, Thursday 10th July 2025, the commission received a further update on additional requests from associations seeking registration as political parties.
“Since last week, seven more applications have been received, bringing the total number so far to 129. All the requests are being processed,” the commission stated.
The commission revealed the introduction of a new digital platform for political party registration. The platform is part of the Party Financial Reporting and Auditing System and aims to streamline the registration process.
Olumekun disclosed that final testing of the portal would be completed within the next week.
“INEC also plans to release comprehensive guidelines to help associations file their applications using the new system.
“Unlike the manual method used in previous registration, the Commission is introducing a political party registration portal, which is a module in our Party Financial Reporting and Auditing System.
“This will make the process faster and seamless. In the next week, the commission will conclude the final testing of the portal before deployment.
“Thereafter, the next step for associations that meet the requirements to proceed to the application stage will be announced. The commission will also issue guidelines to facilitate the filing of applications using the PFRAS,” the statement added.
In the meantime, the list of new associations that have submitted applications has been made available to the public on INEC’s website and other official platforms.
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Tinubu Signs Four Tax Reform Bills Into Law …Says Nigeria Open For Business

President Bola Tinubu yesterday signed into law four tax reform bills aimed at transforming Nigeria’s fiscal and revenue framework.
The four bills include: the Nigeria Tax Bill, the Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, the Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill, and the Joint Revenue Board (Establishment) Bill.
They were passed by the National Assembly after months of consultations with various interest groups and stakeholders.
The ceremony took place at the Presidential Villa, yesterday.
The ceremony was witnessed by the leadership of the National Assembly and some legislators, governors, ministers, and aides of the President.
The presidency had earlier stated that the laws would transform tax administration in the country, increase revenue generation, improve the business environment, and give a boost to domestic and foreign investments.
“When the new tax laws become operational, they are expected to significantly transform tax administration in the country, leading to increased revenue generation, improved business environment, and a boost in domestic and foreign investments,” Special Adviser to the President on Media, Bayo Onanuga said on Wednesday.
Before the signing of the four bills, President Tinubu had earlier yesterday, said the tax reform bills will reset Nigeria’s economic trajectory and simplify its complex fiscal landscape.
Announcing the development via his official X handle, yesterday, the President declared, “In a few hours, I will sign four landmark tax reform bills into law, ushering in a bold new era of economic governance in our country.”
Tinubu made a call to investors and citizens alike, saying, “Let the world know that Nigeria is open for business, and this time, everyone has a fair shot.”
He described the bills as not just technical adjustments but a direct intervention to ease burdens on struggling Nigerians.
“These reforms go beyond streamlining tax codes. They deliver the first major, pro-people tax cuts in a generation, targeted relief for low-income earners, small businesses, and families working hard to make ends meet,” Tinubu wrote.
According to the President, “They will unify our fragmented tax system, eliminate wasteful duplications, cut red tape, restore investor confidence, and entrench transparency and coordination at every level.”
He added that the long-standing burden of Nigeria’s tax structure had unfairly weighed down the vulnerable while enabling inefficiency.
The tax reforms, first introduced in October 2024, were part of Tinubu’s post-subsidy-removal recovery plan, aimed at expanding revenue without stifling productivity.
However, the bills faced turbulence at the National Assembly and amongst some state governors who rejected its passing in 2024.
At the NASS, the bills sparked heated debate, particularly around the revenue-sharing structure, which governors from the North opposed.
They warned that a shift toward derivation-based allocations, especially with VAT, could tilt fiscal balance in favour of southern states with stronger consumption bases.
After prolonged dialogue, the VAT rate remained at 7.5 per cent, and a new exemption was introduced to shield minimum wage earners from personal income tax.
By May 2025, the National Assembly passed the harmonised versions with broad support, driven in part by pressure from economic stakeholders and international observers who welcomed the clarity and efficiency the reforms promised.
In his tweet, Tinubu stressed that this is just the beginning of Nigeria’s tax evolution.
“We are laying the foundation for a tax regime that is fair, transparent, and fit for a modern, ambitious Nigeria.
“A tax regime that rewards enterprise, protects the vulnerable, and mobilises revenue without punishing productivity,” he stated.
He further acknowledged the contributions of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reform Committee, the National Assembly, and Nigeria’s subnational governments.
The President added, “We are not just signing tax bills but rewriting the social contract.
“We are not there yet, but we are firmly on the road.”
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