By Nelson Chukwudi
The administration of Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, commenced on May 29, 2023, following the swearing-in ceremony at the Yakubu Gowon Stadium, Elekahia, Port Harcourt. Governor Fubara began his tenure with a resolute commitment to providing strong, purposeful, and responsible leadership for the people of Rivers State. His administration’s priorities have been centered on economic growth, infrastructure development, and the enhancement of social services, promising a better quality of life for the residents.
Governor Fubara outlined pragmatic strategies to improve the ease of doing business in Rivers State. By fostering a congenial fiscal environment, he aimed to attract local and foreign direct investments, stimulate economic activities, and partner with the private sector to revive industries, create jobs, and encourage commercial agriculture. His administration’s vision included achieving food security, improving living standards, and advancing mass mobility through integrated public transportation systems.
The Governor also promised significant investments in capital infrastructure, electricity, and social housing for vulnerable populations. Key areas of focus include healthcare, education, and youth empowerment through skills acquisition programs. Furthermore, the administration pledged to ensure regular payment of wages, pensions, and gratuities while enhancing the training and welfare of civil servants. A priority was also placed on supporting security agencies to maintain law and order for the safety of residents and businesses across the State.
True to his promises, Governor Fubara has demonstrated capacity through diligent execution of governance. One of the administration’s flagship achievements was the 2024 Rivers State Economic and Investment Summit, which marked a turning point in positioning the State as an investment hub. The summit led to the establishment of the Rivers State Investment Promotion Agency through Executive Order No. 002 of 2024. This agency serves as a one-stop shop to manage investor engagements and streamline business processes.
The ripple effects of the summit are evident in the State’s recent investment inflows. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed with INTEC and OMENE Group of Companies for a $300 million Waste-to-Wealth project, including a 200-megawatt power plant and carbon capture initiatives. Similarly, an MoU with Senendib Capital Limited focuses on protecting mangrove forests and creating a Blue Carbon Credit Partnership, promising environmental and socio-economic benefits while increasing the State’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).
In addition to industrial projects, Governor Fubara has revitalized cultural and tourism assets such as the Port Harcourt Tourist Beach and the Rex Lawson Cultural Centre. Ongoing agricultural projects like the Songhai Integrated Farms further underscore his administration’s commitment to diversifying the economy and creating sustainable opportunities for the people.
Despite these achievements, the Governor has faced challenges from detractors who propagate false narratives to discredit his administration. For instance, malicious reports suggested that Governor Fubara shut down oil companies in retaliation for a Federal High Court ruling. Another baseless rumor alleged armed confrontations linked to his predecessor. These fabrications aim to destabilize the State and create an illusion of discord with the Federal Government.
In reality, Governor Fubara has maintained a harmonious relationship with President Bola Tinubu’s administration, working closely with security agencies to combat illegal oil bunkering and pipeline vandalism. His proactive approach has contributed to improving the nation’s oil production and ensuring peace across Rivers State.
Port Harcourt Ring Road flyover at Rumuosi on East-West Road, one of the five flyovers as part of the project.
Amid these distractions, Governor Fubara remains focused on delivering impactful governance. His administration has completed over 121 kilometers of roads, including the Aleto-Eteo-Ebubu Road, Emohua-Tema Junction Road, and the Omoku-Egbema dualized road. Ongoing projects like the Port Harcourt Ring Road and the Trans-Kalabari Road highlight his commitment to tackling complex infrastructural challenges.
The Governor has also initiated the New Port City project in Eleme Local Government Area, designed as a mega smart port city in partnership with Rainbow Heritage Group Limited. Additionally, a 20,000-unit affordable housing project in Ikwerre Local Government Area is progressing, targeting low-income earners under the administration’s social housing policy.
In October, Governor Fubara made history by implementing an N85,000 minimum wage for State workers, becoming the first Governor in Nigeria to do so. This bold move has significantly improved workers’ welfare and stimulated economic activity. Concurrently, promotions for civil servants are ongoing, addressing a decade-long stagnation.
Pensioners have also benefited from an increased monthly allocation for gratuity payments, rising from N1 billion to N2 billion. This move underscores the Governor’s commitment to ensuring retirees’ dignity and financial stability.
In the security sector, Governor Fubara has supported the Rivers State Police Command with 100 new vehicles to enhance operational efficiency. Similar support has been extended to other security agencies, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property.
A section of the TAF City 20,000 housing units being built in Ikwerre Local Government Area for low-income earners in the State.
Governor Fubara’s governance style reflects meticulous resource management and a focus on impactful initiatives. Projects like the 33.5km Elele-Omoku Road and the 12.5km Trans-Kalabari Road are funded without borrowing, setting Rivers State apart in fiscal responsibility.
Even as detractors seek to undermine his achievements, Governor Fubara’s administration continues to prioritize delivering democratic dividends. His leadership remains a testament to resilience and dedication to the collective good of Rivers State. As BudgIT ranks Rivers among the top-performing states in fiscal management, the Governor’s efforts speak volumes about his commitment to good governance.
Chukwudi is the Chief Press Secretary to the Rivers State Governor. He writes from Port Harcourt.
