Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has called on communities across the state to take responsibility for protecting public assets in their localities, stressing that such facilities are critical to attracting and sustaining development.
The governor made the appeal on Thursday while inaugurating the 9.7-kilometre Emohua–Ogbakiri Roundabout–Egbelu Road at the Ogbakiri Waterfront in Emohua Local Government Area.
Fubara noted that Emohua is home to a university campus and other key public institutions, adding that their safety and preservation are vital to continued growth and progress in the area. He described the newly completed road as a highly significant project, recalling that it was conceived and executed during a difficult period marked by financial and legal challenges for his administration.
According to the governor, the decision to proceed with the project was taken despite constraints facing the state at the time, explaining that the road was designed to complement the East–West Road and improve connectivity to several communities, including Ogbakiri, Tema Junction, Abalama, Abonnema and Buguma. He said it would have been unjust to commission other sections of the route while excluding Ogbakiri.
Fubara disclosed that the initial funding for the project was released when the state was operating under a court order that limited access to funds. He said his government remained determined to honour its commitments to the people, expressing confidence that challenges would always be overcome.
“We are here to demonstrate service delivery,” the governor said, assuring residents that his administration remains focused on fulfilling its promises.
The governor pledged continued government support for communities that promote peace and unity, while also acknowledging the backing of Dr David Omeriji and other supporters of his administration.
Reiterating that peace is fundamental to sustainable development, the governor again urged residents to protect public institutions, including universities and other government facilities, describing them as assets meant for the collective benefit of the people.
Providing details of the project, the Permanent Secretary of the Rivers State Ministry of Works, Dr Austin Ezekiel-Hart, said the road was awarded in September 2024 and covers a total distance of 9.7 kilometres. He explained that it features a 7.3-metre-wide carriageway in built-up areas, a multi-layered asphalt pavement structure, reinforced concrete drainage spanning 4.5 kilometres, culverts at key locations and other ancillary works.
