Governor Siminalayi Fubara marked three years in office this week with a bold message about state resources. He insisted that every naira spent must benefit Rivers people.
Speaking through his Chief Press Secretary, Onwuka Nzeshi, Fubara reaffirmed his administration's commitment to the "Rivers First" principle. This philosophy has guided all major decisions since he took power.
Infrastructure remains at the heart of his government's vision. The governor pointed to massive road projects as proof of this commitment.
Four major highways are under construction across Rivers State. They include the Port Harcourt Ring Road and the Trans-Kalabari Highway.
Others are the Elele/Umudioga/Egbeda/Ubimini/Ikiri/Omoku Road and the Ngo-Atlantic/Oyorokoto Road. These projects aim to link rural areas with urban centres.
Better roads mean better commerce, Fubara explained to residents. Investment will follow improved infrastructure, he added.
In his anniversary message, the governor thanked Rivers people for their trust. He vowed never to squander the confidence they've placed in him.
"What we have achieved in three years shows what's possible when government and citizens work together," he noted. "Progress happens when we pull in the same direction."
Fubara promised to lead with transparency going forward. He said he'll listen more than he speaks to the people.
Every project and policy must reflect the interests of Rivers residents, according to him. Public funds won't be wasted on vanity projects.
But the governor acknowledged that much work remains undone. He called on all segments of society to keep contributing to state development.
Elders, youths, women, traders, teachers, artisans and farmers all have roles to play. Professionals must also step up, he urged.
Fubara used the occasion to celebrate Nigeria's democratic progress as well. The country marked 27 consecutive years of civilian rule this year.
It's the longest unbroken democratic period since independence, he noted with pride. Despite ethnic and political divisions, Nigerians have stayed united.
This shared commitment to democracy shows the nation can overcome its differences. Collective progress remains achievable, Fubara insisted.
