Governor Siminalayi Fubara has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to revamping and fully utilizing the seaports in Rivers State, vowing to partner with the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) to boost economic activity, create jobs, and enhance regional development.
The governor made this pledge in Port Harcourt on Monday during a courtesy visit by the Chairman and board members of the NPA, led by Senator Adedayo Adeyeye.
The visit marked Governor Fubara’s first official engagement since the end of the emergency rule in the state.
Welcoming the board, Governor Fubara emphasized the need for strong collaboration between federal agencies and state governments, noting that such partnerships are essential for implementing projects that reflect the actual needs of communities.
He cited the example of his predecessor, former Governor Nyesom Wike, who had also advocated for cooperative governance, particularly with the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).
“The development of our seaports is critical not just for Rivers State, but for the entire Nigerian economy. We must work together to unlock their full potential,” the governor said.
Governor Fubara expressed concern over the underutilisation of the Port Harcourt and Onne ports, describing it as a missed opportunity for economic transformation.
He proposed a special strategy meeting with the NPA to explore ways to revitalise the ports, improve logistics infrastructure, and attract investments.
The governor stressed that functional and modernised ports would create thousands of direct and indirect jobs, revive port host communities, reduce congestion in urban centres and address minor security issues by engaging unemployed youths
“Job creation through port activities will have a ripple effect on local economies and security. Our youth must be positively engaged,” Fubara added.
On improving sanitation around port host communities, Governor Fubara promised to coordinate with local government chairmen to ensure clean and livable environments, which he said would improve public health and attract investors.
