By Jemimah Wellington, JKNMedia Reporter
EMPHASIZING his administration’s commitment to addressing the needs of the people over political agendas, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has unveiled a new set of initiatives designed to foster community development and enhance social services.
Speaking at the inauguration of the dualized Omoku-Egbema Road project at De Masters Hotel Junction in Omoku Town, Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area (ONELGA), Fubara assured the public that his administration is dedicated to fulfilling its promises within available resources and on schedule.
Fubara highlighted the significance of the Omoku-Egbema Road project, stating, “This project marks a milestone for our administration. Despite initial challenges, the contractor has delivered as promised, demonstrating our commitment to improving the lives of our citizens.” He reiterated that every part of the state will feel the positive impact of his administration’s efforts.
During the event, Fubara acknowledged the critical role ONELGA played in his election campaign, emphasizing their unwavering support and expressed gratitude for their contributions and pledged to address further infrastructure and healthcare needs in the area.
“We are mandating the Ministry of Works to complete the remaining part of this road leading to the boundary with Imo State,” he announced. Additionally, he assured the completion of the zonal hospital within the next week.
Former Governor of Rivers State, Dr. Peter Odili, who was invited to inaugurate the project, commended Fubara for focusing on the people and urged him to continue prioritizing the needs of the less privileged. “The greatest asset of the state is its people, not its oil and gas. By focusing on the people, you ensure the prosperity of your administration,” Dr. Odili remarked.
Giving technical details on project execution, Permanent Secretary of the Rivers State Ministry of Works, Engr Atemea Briggs, revealed that the 21.6Km dual carriageway, initially awarded in April 2023 for N7.597 billion without funding, had its scope expanded due to inflation, bringing the total cost to N13.07 billion.
The project, he said, was executed by Sectraco Nigeria Limited, and completed on time as well as within budget.
High Chief Shedrack Akalokwu, in his welcome address, praised Fubara’s action-oriented leadership, noting that the swift execution of the Omoku-Egbema Dual Carriageway and other ongoing projects by construction giant Julius Berger exemplify the administration’s commitment to infrastructural development.
Also speaking, the contractor, Engr Michael Issa, Area Manager of Sectraco Nigeria Limited, highlighted the company’s satisfaction in delivering the project. He emphasized the quality and durability of the road, marking it as a significant achievement for the Fubara’s administration.
Former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, also addressed the audience, lauding the state’s economic and investment summit.
He emphasized the importance of strategic infrastructure, human capital development, and institutional reforms for sustainable growth in Rivers State. “The path to prosperity lies in innovation, reform, and a commitment to building a skilled workforce and robust institutions,” Sanusi stated.
On his vision for sustainable development, Sanusi noted that Fubara’s comprehensive approach to development by focusing on both immediate and long-term needs as initiatives that set a precedent for future administrations.
The former CBN governor urged him to uphold his administration’s dedication to fulfilling promises, enhancing infrastructure, and improving social services underscores a commitment to the people of Rivers State, ensuring a prosperous future for all.
