Rivers State Governor Announces 2025 Budget Preparations
Port Harcourt, Nigeria – Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has announced that his administration has begun preparations for the 2025 budget, prioritizing education, healthcare, and agriculture. This announcement came during a solidarity visit from the leadership and stakeholders of Etche and Omuma Local Government Areas, led by Ogbakor Etche, at Government House in Port Harcourt on Wednesday.
Governor Fubara also addressed the legislative seats of Martin Amaewhule and 24 others, declared vacant on December 13, 2023, stating they will remain so. He insisted that the affected lawmakers, who defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), are responsible for their situation.
Dismissing recent criticisms from the defected lawmakers, Governor Fubara emphasized the ongoing progress in the state’s governance. “We are already preparing the 2025 budget, which will focus on education, healthcare, and agriculture,” he said. “Agriculture, in particular, will be a significant area to ensure food security and create employment.”
Governor Fubara expressed his commitment to maintaining quality public services, stating, “Our children need access to quality education and healthcare. Even if they can’t attend private institutions, our public schools and hospitals must provide standard services.”
The governor also highlighted efforts to tackle unemployment through agricultural initiatives, aimed at engaging the youth and reducing crime rates. “We aim to secure and protect our state by providing meaningful opportunities for our young people,” he added.
Regarding the declared vacant seats, Governor Fubara explained, “The declaration of their seats vacant is what is holding them. We are not doing any budget to nullify that decision. It is what will send them to their villages.”
Governor Fubara reiterated his administration’s stance on governance, stating, “We are not fighting anybody. We appreciate the contributions of those who have supported us. But we will govern standing tall, not on our knees.”
The governor also addressed issues raised by the Etche and Omuma communities, including herdsmen attacks and illegal dredging. He assured that his administration is working with the Nigeria Police to find lasting solutions and announced a N50 million donation to Ogbakor Etche Worldwide for organizational support.
Oyeisi Etche, His Eminence, Eze Emmanuel Opurum, and the President General of Ogbakor Etche Worldwide, Sir Charles Nwonuala, expressed their communities’ support for Governor Fubara’s administration. They highlighted development needs and pledged continued cooperation to ensure the success of his governance.
Dr. George Nwaeke, Head of Rivers State Civil Service, emphasized the unified support from Etche Nation, including 70 academic professors, women, and youths, acknowledging Governor Fubara’s inclusive leadership and dedication to peace.
Signed: Nelson Chukwudi
Chief Press Secretary to the Rivers State Governor
Wednesday, July 10, 2024.