Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has declared that despite political distractions, his administration will continue to do everything possible to meet the expectations of the people of Rivers State.
The Governor emphasized that governance is about providing quality infrastructure and appropriate social amenities that enhance the well-being of the people.
He assured that his administration will remain focused and determined to deliver on its responsibilities, justifying the support of over 8 million Rivers people.
The Governor made this statement after swearing in five new commissioners and two special advisers to his cabinet at the Executive Council Chambers of the Government House in Port Harcourt on Wednesday.
The newly sworn-in commissioners are: Hon. Ilamu Arugu (Abua/Odual); Dr. Roland Obed-Whyte (Degema); Sir Austin Emeka Nnadozie (Etche); Hon. Samuel Eyiba (Ahoada West); and Hon. Samuel Anya (Abia State). The Special Advisers are Barrister Forgive Amachree (Ahoada-West) and Mr. Achor Nna (Obio-Akpor).
No portfolios have been assigned yet.
Governor Fubara stated: “We are focused on governance, not politics. When the time for politics comes, we will discuss politics. Today, we are welcoming you onboard and charging you to be good ambassadors, not just for this administration, but for your people.
“It is a call to duty. Work in a way that makes everyone happy. Governance is about making people happy, and that is our goal.
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“At the end of the day, Rivers people will not ask us about court judgments or protests. They want to see results. Your role today is to help us achieve top marks on our report card.
“Let me take this opportunity to thank our team for their continuous support. We will continue to make the good people of Rivers State proud and prove that their trust in us was not misplaced.”
He congratulated the new appointees, acknowledging that while he knew some of them personally and others were recommended by their leaders, all are charged with upholding the confidence placed in them.
He urged them to defend the state and the government at all times and avoid actions that might hinder governance.
The Governor added: “Being part of this team is an opportunity to defend the government and ensure that the efforts made by millions of people 11 and a half months ago are not in vain.
“They stood for something, and because of that, we are still here, conducting governance despite minor distractions.
“Joining our team today is your chance to add value. We are not bringing you onboard to criticize or attack others. The detractors are increasing their efforts so that we will miss our target. Don’t give them that opportunity.”
Governor Fubara also advised Dr. Samuel Anya, the Abia-born representative of non-indigenes, to treat all non-indigenes from the West, East, North, and minority groups equally.
He said: “Don’t prioritize only the East because you are from the East. Be a better representative so that all non-indigenes feel included, and this support we are receiving from them will grow. We need their continued support.”