Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has given a strong indication of his interest in seeking a second term.
The governor dropped this hint on Friday during the launch of the N30.4 billion Buguma-Abalama-Tema-Degema-Abonnema road project in the Kalabari region.
The ambitious project, spanning 19.7 kilometres, is awarded to construction giant Julius Berger. Governor Fubara disclosed that despite financial challenges, including the seizure of state revenue allocations, his administration has paid a mobilisation fee of N9.1 billion to kickstart the project.
Addressing the Kalabari people, Fubara expressed his administration’s unwavering commitment to their development.
“If we continue like this, my first tenure and probably my second tenure will end in Kalabari,” Fubara said, sparking speculation about his political ambitions.
He reassured the people of his focus on addressing their demands, including healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
Kalabari Gets N30.4bn Road as Fubara Promises Progress
The launch event attracted a large crowd, with the governor being joined by former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Odein Ajumogobia.
Ajumogobia hailed the project as a significant step toward urban development and reducing rural-urban migration. He reminisced about the area’s past glory, particularly its functional port, which has long been neglected.
“This road brings inclusivity, development, and opportunities for our people. With this, I can live in Buguma and work in Port Harcourt,” Ajumogobia said.
The project is designed to connect Buguma, Degema, and Abonnema, traversing nine communities. Seven bridges in varying states of disrepair will also be rehabilitated.
Commissioner for Works, Elloka Tasie-Amadi, explained that the road will feature over 12,000 metres of drainage to combat flooding, with construction expected to be completed in 15 months.
Criticism Will Not Deter Me, Says Fubara
Fubara hit back at critics who have downplayed his achievements, accusing them of “terrible things” during their time in government.
“No amount of social media attacks can diminish what we have done,” he declared.
He also appealed to the youth not to sabotage the project, urging them to support the contractors and guard against external interference.
“This project is yours. Own it, defend it, and don’t allow enemies to use you against it,” he warned.
Commitment to Kalabari Runs Deep
Governor Fubara highlighted his administration’s love for the Kalabari people, citing the N225 billion already committed to the Trans-Kalabari road project.
“In my place, the only thing I’ve done is the Ring Road, which cost less than N10 billion. But here, we are committing billions because we value you,” Fubara said.
The Trans-Kalabari road, along with the new project, is expected to transform the region by improving connectivity and boosting economic activities.
