● Tonye Okurumo
• Inaugurates Government House Staff Quarters
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has assured the people of the state that despite ongoing opposition to his administration, governance remains on course, and victory is certain.
This was disclosed in a press statement issued earlier today by Nelson Chukwudi, Chief Press Secretary to the Rivers State Governor.
Speaking at the inauguration of the newly reconstructed Rivers State Government House Staff Quarters along Forces Avenue (opposite Government House), Old GRA, Port Harcourt, on Monday, Governor Fubara acknowledged that the recent Supreme Court judgment had dampened the spirits of many in the state. However, he urged the people to remain resolute, emphasizing that the future holds greater prospects.
He reassured the people that divine guidance would see them through, saying, “Our back is not on anybody; it is on God. I want to thank you for your support, and assure you that, if there is one person on this planet Earth that will continue to stand by you, I will be that person.
“I assure you that I will lead you with honour, I will lead you with respect, and I will lead you with integrity, knowing that when I leave here, I would have questions to answer, if I am called upon 20 – 30 years from today. I want to be proud to defend my position. So, I thank you and assure you that I will not disappoint you.”
Governor Fubara emphasized that, despite efforts by adversaries to deceive the state, the time had come for Rivers people to take control of their own destiny.
Clarifying his stance against violence, he warned that his administration would not remain passive while enemies of the state attempt to instigate unrest.
“No matter how we’ve been fooled in this State, it has gotten to a point when the people have to decide to take their destinies in their hands.
“Inasmuch as I don’t subscribe to violence, when the time comes for us to take a decision, I will lead the course for that decision. Let me say it again: I am not scared of anything, the worst that will happen is for me to leave office. Am I leaving the earth? Is it going to stop me from existing?
“So, I am not even bothered about that. But the right thing must be done, and must be said when the opportunity is given to us. Let me thank everyone, more especially our youths. Be strong, don’t be perturbed. I assure you, at the right time, you will hear from us.”
Governor Fubara reiterated that the interest of Rivers State remains his top priority and stated his willingness to pay the supreme price if necessary.
Drawing strength from his faith in God and the support of Rivers people who desire peace and progress, he urged them to find honor in standing for truth. Quoting Philippians 3:18-19, he said:
“For as I have often told you before, and now, I tell you again, even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their destiny is destruction, and their god is in their stomach, and their glory is in their shame, their mind is set on earthly things only.”
He added,”Just like the word said, we are not after our stomach, we are after the joy of our people, that at the end of the day, what will count for us is the lives that we have touched genuinely, the legacy we leave that will speak for us, that will open doors for our children, the generations yet unborn.
“Knowing that and having that in mind, it spurs us, it forces me, as a person, to stand on the side of right, to do good, to stand on the side of truth that even if anybody calls me tomorrow, I should be bold to defend my actions.”
On the Government House Staff Quarters
Governor Fubara expressed satisfaction that his administration had the foresight to conceive and execute the staff quarters project, dedicating it to the glory of God for the benefit of workers.
He affirmed that the successful completion of the staff quarters and other upcoming projects debunk claims that governance in the state has stalled.
“Here is a legitimate, purpose-driven governance in Rivers State, and we are here to display, genuinely, not because of our own selfish interest, one of those things that this government has done to show that we appreciate, understand the need, and must continue to do what is right for our people.
“When we came on board, this building was a dilapidated building, completely uninhabitable. We felt we must add value, which is the basis of our governance, to what we met, and we decided that, look, our staff can’t be living in uncomfortable places, they can’t live like animals while I live in a big comfortable place.
“How would I get efficiency from my workers if they are not happy? The government decided to embark on this project, and I am happy that the contractor delivered it within the time limit.”
Governor Fubara thanked the elders of the state for their continued support and assured them that he remains committed to delivering good governance.
In his remarks, the Chief of Staff, Government House, Rt. Hon. Edison Ehie, commended the Governor for reconstructing the staff quarters and furnishing it to ensure a comfortable living environment for workers.
Providing an overview of the project, Permanent Secretary, Government House, Mr. Chukwuma Ndudi Augustine, disclosed that the contract was awarded on June 6, 2024, to Monier Construction Company (MCC) and has now been fully completed and paid for.
He detailed the facilities within the quarters, stating:
“The Government House Staff Quarters has six two-bedroom apartments, eleven one-bedroom apartments, and eleven Boys’ Quarters. Hostel A has 32 bed spaces, while Hostel B has 30 bed spaces.
“There is a canteen, cafeteria, gymnasium, mini basketball court, a soundproof power-generating plant, and a water tank. The contract has been fully executed, and the accommodation will significantly enhance workers’ productivity.” GMTNewsng