Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has assured residents, particularly civil servants, that his administration’s policies will leave a lasting impact, setting a benchmark for people-centered governance. Speaking at the inauguration of the Emblem Appeal Fund on Thursday at the Banquet Hall of Government House in Port Harcourt, Fubara highlighted significant strides made under his leadership while reaffirming his commitment to advancing the state’s development.
The event, which anticipates the Armed Forces Remembrance Day on January 15, 2025, also underscored the governor’s dedication to honoring Nigeria’s war veterans and their families.
Achievements in Employment and Education
Governor Fubara detailed the administration’s focus on strategic employment initiatives, noting the recruitment of 2,000 healthcare professionals and the approval of 1,000 new teaching positions for the Universal Basic Education (UBE) and Post-Primary Schools Boards.
“We have employed over 2,000 medical doctors and approved 1,000 teaching roles. These strategic hires aim to strengthen the professional workforce critical to the state’s growth,” he stated.
The governor clarified that the previously proposed plan to recruit 10,000 civil servants has been revised to prioritize specialized roles.
On education, Fubara highlighted scholarship programs, noting that while the state’s scholarship board has yet to be formalized, efforts have already commenced in partnership with institutions like PAMO University of Medical Sciences and Wigwe University.
“Even without an official scholarship program, we’ve supported students at PAMO and Wigwe Universities. Once our internal scholarship board is operational, we will expand these opportunities,” he assured.
Improved Civil Service Welfare
Governor Fubara also highlighted significant improvements in civil service welfare, emphasizing increased salaries as a testament to his administration’s commitment to its workforce.
“Civil servants now earn between N120,000 and N140,000, a substantial increase from the previous N70,000. This improvement has brought joy to our workers, and I am confident they will remember how this government made a difference in their lives,” he said.
Honoring Veterans and Their Families
Fubara used the occasion to reflect on the importance of honoring Nigeria’s fallen heroes, sharing a personal connection through his late father, a military officer.
“This event resonates deeply with me as the son of a fallen hero. I remember how proud my mother felt attending this event each year, knowing my father’s sacrifices were acknowledged. It is our duty to support the families of those who gave their lives for our nation,” he remarked.
He called for collective support of the Emblem Appeal Fund, emphasizing the critical role of the military in safeguarding the nation’s unity and sovereignty.
Focus on Governance and Stability
Governor Fubara reiterated his administration’s commitment to fostering peace, stability, and effective governance in Rivers State.
“The joy of any government lies in ensuring its people are happy and secure. We remain steadfast in fulfilling our responsibilities, protecting the state from those who undermine governance, and ensuring stability,” he added.
The governor’s remarks showcased a vision of progress and compassion, reflecting his administration’s dedication to impactful governance and its enduring legacy in the lives of Rivers State residents.
