While political detractors continue to push narratives justifying the imposition of a state of emergency in Rivers State, it is important to set the record straight. Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s achievements over the past year and ten months speak for themselves, overshadowing any propaganda aimed at undermining his administration.
Governor Fubara has made significant strides in revamping Rivers State’s healthcare system. Under his leadership, numerous abandoned health facilities have been revived, including the remodeled and expanded Zonal Hospital in Bori. Similar projects are also underway in Omoku, Ahoada, and Degema, ensuring that quality healthcare services reach every corner of the state.
Recognizing the importance of human resources in healthcare, the governor employed over 2,000 health workers to boost efficiency in medical facilities. Additionally, his administration implemented the Rivers State Health Insurance Scheme, making healthcare more accessible and affordable. He also approved the remodeling of 153 primary healthcare centers across the state, reinforcing his dedication to public health.
Education has been a cornerstone of Governor Fubara’s administration. His government has remodeled key institutions and commissioned several major projects, such as the Okrika Grammar School and Government Girls Secondary School, Ahoada. The Kalabari National College is also undergoing significant reconstruction.
To tackle a decade-long stagnation in employment, Gov. Fubara recruited 1,000 teachers, ensuring that schools are adequately staffed to provide quality education. In addition to improving learning facilities, his administration has promoted civil servants and implemented a new N85,000 minimum wage—far exceeding the national benchmark. This wage increase, coupled with twice-gifted N100,000 Christmas bonuses to the entire workforce, including pensioners, highlights his commitment to improving the welfare of state employees.
Despite political distractions and attempts to derail his administration, Gov. Fubara has remained focused on delivering landmark projects that will enhance the economic and social landscape of Rivers State.
His administration has embarked on transformative infrastructure projects, including:
• The 50.15km Port Harcourt dual carriage ring road, a critical project that will ease traffic congestion and boost commerce.
• The 12.3km Trans-Kalabari road, linking communities and fostering economic activities.
• The 23.5km Elele-Umudioga-Ubimini-Ikiri-Omoku road, designed to improve connectivity and ease transportation challenges.
Beyond these major projects, the governor has successfully completed and commissioned several key road networks, including:
• The 11.8km Okehi-Umuola-Eberi road, significantly improving access in the region.
• The 14km Omuma-Omodu road, which facilitates trade and movement.
• The 23km Bori internal roads, enhancing urban mobility.
Additionally, Gov. Fubara has strengthened traditional institutions by commissioning new palaces and supported the judiciary by delivering seven blocks of five-bedroom duplexes for judges, ensuring they have a conducive working environment.
Governor Fubara’s synergy with security agencies has been remarkable. Recognizing that security is paramount for development, he has taken proactive steps to enhance the state’s safety. His administration has:
• Donated a helicopter to the Nigerian Air Force to aid surveillance and emergency response.
• Built housing units for military personnel, ensuring they have proper accommodation.
• Provided six gunboats to enhance maritime security and combat illegal activities along the waterways.
• Supplied over 100 operational vehicles to the Nigerian Police, strengthening their capacity to fight crime.
• Distributed Hilux vans to the NSCDC to help curb pipeline vandalism and protect national assets.
These security measures have significantly bolstered peace and created a favorable environment for new investments in Rivers State.
One of the most misleading claims used to justify the imposition of a state of emergency was that Gov. Fubara had neglected the Rivers State House of Assembly complex. However, this claim has been debunked.
The governor had, in fact, initiated the reconstruction of the Assembly complex early last year, and the project is now near completion. Even the Sole Administrator appointed after his suspension has confirmed the progress, proving that the allegations were baseless.
The hasty decision to impose emergency rule in Rivers State, based on unverified reports, has raised concerns about the neutrality of the federal government. This drastic move threatens to stall numerous ongoing projects, as Gov. Fubara’s direct supervision of contractors ensured both speed and quality in execution.
Despite these political maneuvers, one fact remains undeniable: before this unfortunate interference, Rivers State was thriving under a leader committed to the welfare of his people.
No amount of falsehood can erase Gov. Fubara’s legacies. His impact in healthcare, education, infrastructure, security, and governance will stand the test of time. In due course, he will reclaim his mission to uphold the #RiversFirst mantra, ensuring that the progress he initiated continues for the benefit of all.
