Siminalayi Fubara, the Governor of Rivers State has stated that the people, especially civil servants, are enthusiastic about his administration due to its focus on people-oriented policies and programs.
He assured that his government is committed to fulfilling its obligations to the people, protecting the state from those who seek to disrupt governance, and ensuring peace and stability in the region.
Governor Fubara made these remarks on Thursday at the Banquet Hall of Government House in Port Harcourt during the launch of the Emblem Appeal Fund, in preparation for the Armed Forces Remembrance Day on January 15, 2025.
The governor highlighted key developments, including the employment of 2,000 professionals in the health sector and the approval of 1,000 new positions for the Universal Basic Education (UBE) and Post-Primary Schools Boards. He clarified that the previously planned 10,000 civil service appointments were suspended in favor of more strategic hiring for professional roles.
“We have employed over 2,000 medical doctors, and we have also approved 1,000 teaching positions for UBE and Post-Primary Schools. We are focusing on professional cadre employment for the state’s growth,” Fubara stated.
The governor also addressed the state’s scholarship offerings, noting that while the state government has not yet activated its scholarship board, scholarships have been awarded to students at PAMO University of Medical Sciences and Wigwe University.
“Rivers State Government has not yet started its scholarship program, but we have offered scholarships at PAMO and Wigwe Universities. When our internal scholarship board is activated, we will expand the opportunities for students,” Fubara explained.
Governor Fubara further emphasized the government’s success in improving the welfare of civil servants in the state. He pointed to the increase in salaries, with civil servants now earning between N120,000 and N140,000, a significant improvement from the previous N70,000.
“The greatest joy for any government is to ensure the happiness of its people. Today, our civil servants are jubilating because their salaries have improved. They will remember this and recognize that this government made a difference in their lives,” he said.
On the Emblem Appeal Fund, Governor Fubara reflected on the importance of honoring war veterans and their families, sharing a personal story about his late father, a military officer.
“This event is close to my heart because I am a dependent of a fallen hero. Every January, my mother would return from this event smiling, proud of the contribution my father made. We must support the survivors and families of our fallen heroes, as no amount of money can fully compensate for their sacrifice,” Fubara said.
He urged all to contribute to the cause, recognizing the sacrifices made by the nation’s military in protecting its sovereignty and unity.