GOVERNOR SIMINALAYI FUBARA WELCOMES KALABARI PEOPLE, REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO DEVELOPMENT
Government House, Port Harcourt – Tuesday, February 11, 2025
His Excellency, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, has reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to the development and welfare of the Kalabari people, emphasizing that his actions are driven by a deep sense of responsibility rather than political ambition. The Governor made this assertion while addressing a delegation of Kalabari leaders and stakeholders from Asari-Toru, Akuku-Toru, and Degema Local Government Areas during their solidarity visit to the Government House in Port Harcourt.
Welcoming the delegation, Governor Fubara expressed appreciation for their presence and acknowledged the insightful speeches delivered, particularly highlighting the address by Chief Pawariso Horsefall. He stated that his continued commitment to the Kalabari people was not motivated by electoral considerations but rather by a genuine sense of belonging and duty.
"If this were close to elections and I had been doing the things I have already done for the Kalabari people, it would mean that my interest and love for you are not because I want to win elections. It is because I see you as my own," the Governor stated.
Governor Fubara emphasized the importance of integrity in governance, noting that honesty is a rare and valuable trait. He assured the delegation that his administration remains dedicated to delivering impactful projects that will significantly enhance the lives of the people.
Highlighting the progress of ongoing developmental projects, Governor Fubara reaffirmed his administration’s determination to complete the Trans-Kalabari Road, a critical infrastructure project aimed at boosting connectivity and reducing insecurity on the waterways. He underscored the economic and social benefits the project would bring, including lowering the cost of living and improving accessibility for residents.
"We ventured into the Trans-Kalabari Road with our eyes open because we knew what we were getting into. It is not a joke; it is a big project. By the time it is completed, the level of development it will bring to Kalabari will be unprecedented. Issues of insecurity on our waterways will be reduced, as we will travel by road instead of by river," he said.
Governor Fubara also addressed other key infrastructure projects in the Kalabari region, including:
Buguma-Abalama-Tema-Degema-Abonnema Road: Currently under construction to enhance inter-community connectivity.
Zonal Hospital: Set for commissioning in May, reinforcing the government’s commitment to improving healthcare.
General Hospital, Abonnema: Immediate intervention directed to the Commissioner for Health following reports of poor health services in the area.
On the issue of shoreline protection and land reclamation, the Governor noted that his administration has successfully completed the first phase of land reclamation in Abonnema, with plans underway to commence the second phase. He assured the people that similar projects in Buguma and other communities are being reviewed for full completion.
"We do not have much land, so the only way to expand is by reclaiming land from the swamps and creeks. Some of your sons have approached us for further reclamation projects, and we are considering how to proceed. Be assured that we will address these concerns," he affirmed.
Responding to concerns about the recognition of traditional stools, Governor Fubara assured the delegation that his administration is committed to recognizing as many as possible, provided such recognitions foster unity rather than division.
"You must assure me that such recognition will not cause further disunity. For anyone you recommend, I will conduct thorough checks before granting recognition," he cautioned.
On the establishment of a tertiary institution in the Kalabari region, the Governor emphasized the need for sustainability. He pointed out that many existing campuses were not self-sustaining and stated that any new institution would be carefully planned to ensure long-term viability and federal support.
"It is not just about creating a tertiary institution; it has to be one that, while receiving government support, can also attract federal attention. It must be specialized to stand the test of time," he noted.
Governor Fubara reaffirmed that his leadership remains focused on governance rather than political maneuvering. He urged the Kalabari people to remain steadfast and united, assuring them that his administration would continue to prioritize their interests.
"It is not about the number of years we will be in office that matters to this government, but the impact we make while in power," he said.
Addressing concerns about future political transitions, the Governor expressed confidence that the right decisions would be made at the appropriate time. He urged the people not to be distracted by political speculation.
"Power belongs to God. When we get to the bridge, we will cross it. You do not need to worry; when the time comes, we will cross it in such a way that our enemies will be struggling, unaware of when we pass, only to wake up and realize that we are already on the other side," he stated.
Governor Fubara took time to appreciate key Kalabari leaders and stakeholders who have remained steadfast in their support for his administration. He particularly acknowledged Chief Dumo Lulu-Briggs for his unwavering support since withdrawing his legal case after the elections.
He also commended the resilience of the Ijaw people, emphasizing their integrity and strong-willed nature.
"We are a people who, even if you feed us, will reject your food if you do wrong, but we will stand by the truth. They will try in different ways to divide us, but we must remain united. You have stood firm—continue to stand with us," he urged.
Reassuring those who have faced political challenges due to their support for his administration, the Governor
promised that they would not be abandoned.
"Your success is our success," he declared.
In conclusion, Governor Fubara expressed deep appreciation for the solidarity visit, describing it as an emotional moment given past attempts to question his Ijaw heritage. He reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that his administration’s legacy is evident in the quality of projects delivered to the Kalabari people.
"Your support for us will be evident, not just in words but in the quality of projects we deliver in your communities. That way, you can proudly tell others that supporting this administration was not a mistake," he assured.
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