Popular Nigerian comedian, Chukwuemeka Emmanuel Ejekwu, widely known as Sabinus, has once again turned his attention from the stage to the streets — this time, by launching a new road construction project at Obi Nkita/Ali Agwor in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
This marks another chapter in the comedian’s ongoing efforts to give back to his community, earning praise from residents who have long suffered from poor road infrastructure in the area.
The construction, which began earlier this week, is being fully sponsored by Sabinus himself, without any known support or funding from the government.
The comedian, who rose to fame through skits that often highlight the everyday struggles of ordinary Nigerians, seems to be taking a real-world approach to tackling those very challenges. For many residents, this gesture goes beyond comedy — it’s a life-changing intervention.
“We are very happy that someone like Sabinus, who made it through hard work, has remembered us,” said Mr. Chinedu Opara, a local shop owner in the Obi Nkita area. “Government has forgotten us for years, but he came to help. God will bless him.”
The road, which connects several residential and commercial parts of the community, has long been in a poor state. During the rainy season, it becomes almost impassable, with potholes, erosion, and flooding making life difficult for both motorists and pedestrians. Residents say the project, once completed, will improve mobility, business activities, and safety in the area.
This is not the first time Sabinus has undertaken such a project. Earlier this year, he funded repairs on another damaged road in the same city, which also won him praise from fans and local leaders alike.
While some celebrities donate cash or make public appearances in their hometowns, Sabinus has chosen a more long-term and practical form of philanthropy — infrastructure development.
According to Mr. Nnamdi Ugochukwu, a youth leader in the area, “What Sabinus is doing is rare. Most people wait for political appointments or contracts, but he is doing it from his own pocket. We are proud of him.”
Social media has also lit up with admiration. Videos and photos of the construction site have been circulating online, with many users applauding the comedian for using his fame and resources to uplift his people. “This is the kind of celebrity we need,” one user posted. “Not just making us laugh, but solving real problems.”
Sabinus, known for his “Mr. Funny” brand and his signature blue shirt character in viral comedy skits, has remained modest about his achievements. Though he did not make a formal announcement before the project began, community members say he quietly met with local leaders and engineers before commencing work.
Attempts to reach the comedian for comments were unsuccessful, but close associates say he is passionate about doing more for underdeveloped communities in Rivers State.
Port Harcourt, the capital of Rivers State, is one of Nigeria’s oil-rich cities but continues to face issues related to poor infrastructure, especially in rural and inner-city areas. Many residents complain about the neglect from government authorities, which makes private initiatives like Sabinus’s road project even more significant.
“Sabinus’s project is a reminder that anyone with influence and resources can contribute meaningfully to development,” said Mrs. Amaka Worgu, a community development expert based in Port Harcourt. “We hope others in the entertainment and business world follow his example.”
For now, all eyes are on the progress of the Obi Nkita/Ali Agwor road construction. Residents, who previously navigated muddy paths and broken concrete, say they are hopeful that the new road will bring relief and development to the community.
“This is not about politics or fame,” said Mrs. Gladys Nkoro, a trader in the area. “It’s about one of our own remembering where he came from and doing what our leaders have failed to do.”
