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Abdulasami, Umahi, Ooni Hail Wike On Projects Delivery …As RSG Unveils Rex Lawson Cultural Centre …Garrison-Trans-Amadi- Woji-Elelenwo Road Comes Alive …Gov Orders New Flyover At Garrison
The Rivers State Government has officially unveiled the ultra-modern Rivers State Cultural Centre completed by the administration of Governor Nyesom Wike.
The project, which was commissioned by the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, last Saturday, is a facility for the promotion of culture, arts and tradition.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony in the heart of Port Harcourt Township, Wike renamed the edifice Rex Lawson Cultural Centre.
He noted that the new name is to immortalise the legendary musician whose music promoted Rivers State and brought joy to the people.
Wike said that the cultural centre was abandoned by the immediate past administration, but added that his administration resolved to complete the project because of its importance to the state.
“We did not re-award the contract. We negotiated with the contractor that abandoned the job, paid him and ensured that this superlative edifice is delivered.
“There will be urban renewal around this neighbourhood where the centre is located. We have reconstructed Creek Road and we will develop other facilities to beautify this area”, he said.
He stated that the state government would lease the facility out for private management as a means of sustaining it, insisting that similar facilities were destroyed by civil servants.
“For the opportunity given to me by Rivers State, there is nothing that I cannot do for the state. I will pay the state back in a big way”, he said.
In his remarks, Ebonyi State Governor, Engr David Umahi commended Wike for completing the magnificent Rex Lawson Cultural Centre.
He noted that the Ebonyi State Government would replicate same edifice in Abakiliki, and praised the governor for serving Rivers people diligently.
Commissioning the project, Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi lauded the Rivers State governor for promoting culture, tourism and tradition through the Rex Lawson Cultural Centre.
He praised Wike for working for the ordinary people, a situation which has made him very close to the people.
Ogunwusi noted that he was proud to be associated with Wike because of the governor’s love for Rivers people, and urged other governors to emulate the Rivers State governor.
The Ooni of Ife appealed to Nigerian leaders to set aside politics of bitterness and destruction, and focus on service to the people.
“Your Excellency, God will continue to be with you. God will continue to be with the good people of Rivers State. How many leaders can execute and commission projects so close to the people? How many leaders can stand tall and speak so close to the people.
“Today, I am very proud to be associated with ‘Mr Projects’, the governor of Rivers State for the love he has for his people. I want other governors to learn from him”, the Ooni of Ife said.
Also speaking, the Rivers State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Mrs Tonye Oniyide said the Rex Lawson Cultural Centre was the best on the continent, explaining that it has state-of-the-art facilities.
After the commissioning ceremony, the Rivers State governor, his Ebonyi State counterpart, the Ooni of Ife, and selected guests watched cultural dances, comedy and musical performance.
Meanwhile, the Ebonyi State Governor, Engr Dave Umahi has praised Rivers State Governor, Chief Nyesom Wike for the monumental transformation taking place in the state.
Speaking during the matriculation ceremony of Pamo University of Medical Sciences in Port Harcourt, last Saturday, Umahi said that the numerous quality projects being churned out by the Rivers State governor were outstanding.
He noted that as someone who lived in Rivers State for over two decades, he appreciates the infrastructural development in the state.
Umahi said: “I am excited by the outstanding projects’ delivery taking place in Rivers State. I am happy with the quality of work done by the governor.
“As a professional civil engineer of over 30 years, I can tell you authoritatively that quality work is taking place in Rivers State.
“It is very easy to forget where we are coming from. I have watched the daily commissioning of great projects across the state”.
The Ebonyi State governor lauded his Rivers State counterpart for the sacrifices he was making to move the state forward.
He noted that the cost of projects in Rivers State was service-oriented and not aimed at enriching anybody.
“I want to join voices with others to commend Governor Wike for living up to the expectations of Rivers people”, he said.
He noted that though the forces of darkness would rise up against Wike, he would emerge victorious by the support of God and Rivers people.
In his remarks, Rivers State Governor, Chief Nyesom Wike congratulated new students of Pamo University of Medical Sciences, stressing that the state government has kept her promise of sponsoring 500 students on scholarship in the next five years.
Wike said that the first set of 100 students was already studying in the institution.
He advised Rivers students under the state government scholarship at Pamo University of Medical Sciences to put in their best, so that they could contribute to the development of the state in future.
The former Head of State, Gen Abdulsalami Abubakar, who is the chancellor of the institution, former Rivers State governor and Pro-Chancellor, Dr Peter Odili, and other leaders attended the matriculation ceremony.
Also, with majestic streetlights, modern traffic lights and excellent dual carriageway in full splendour of the night, the Rivers State Government, last Friday, unveiled the 8.4-kilometre Garrison-Trans-Amadi-Slaughter-Woji-Elelenwo Road.
Fitted with 16 telecommunication ducts on the two sides of the dual-carriageway, the Garrison-Trans-Amadi-Slaughter-Woji-Elelenwo Road has six bridges and seven exquisitely designed roundabouts with delicately placed walkways and gardens.
It was awarded by the immediate past administration in 2009, but abandoned due to the refusal of that administration to fund it.
However, upon assumption of office, Governor Nyesom Wike financed the execution of the project through internally generated revenue.
Commissioning the Garrison-Trans-Amadi-Slaughter-Woji-Elelenwo Road, the former Head of State, Gen Abdulsalami Abubakar praised the governor for his delivery of outstanding projects to Rivers people.
He said that the Garrison-Trans-Amadi-Slaughter-Woji-Elelenwo Road, which leads to the economic nerve-centre of Rivers State, was a major contribution to the growth of the state.
The former Head of State charged those using the road to use it responsibly.
“I want to appeal to people using this road to ensure it is well maintained and pub in good use.
“Let me draw your attention to the need to keep peace not only in the state but in Nigeria. Without peace, no development will take place”, he said.
Abdulsalami called for the sustained maintenance of the road, adding that people must pay their taxes for more roads to be constructed.
In his address, Rivers State Governor, Chief Nyesom Wike stated he would always use Rivers resources to develop world-class infrastructure for the state.
He said though the Garrison-Trans-Amadi-Slaughter-Woji-Elelenwo Road was awarded by the Chibuike Amaechi administration, it was abandoned at less than 30 per cent completion.
The governor added that his administration retained the same contractor, till the road was delivered.
“This road traverses Port Harcourt and Obio/Akpor local government areas. When we came on board, RCC left the site because the road was not funded. Our administration paid over N17billion to complete this project.
“This road is very key to the development of the state. Trans-Amadi is an industrial hub. The poor state of the road drove companies away. But now, most companies are back. The roundabouts have changed the landscape”, he said.
He directed the construction of a flyover from Government Vocational Centre to Saint John’s on Aba Road.
The governor added that all projects that would impact on the lives of the people would be completed by the administration.
The Rivers State Works Commissioner, Hon Dumnemene Dekor said the road would enhance the development of the area.
In his remarks, the representative of RCC, Engr Nabel Esawi thanked the Rivers State Government for funding the road to completion.
Also speaking, the Caretaker Committee Chairman of Port Harcourt City Local Government Area, Prince Amadi Oparaeli thanked the Rivers State governor for the major road that would improve the economy of the state.
The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok Ete Ekwe Ibas (rtd), has charged the new Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof Ibibia Lucky Worika to bring his wealth of experience to bear in governance of the State.
Vice Admiral Ibas (rtd) gave the charge shortly after swearing in the new SSG at the executive chambers of Government House on Wednesday night.
The Administrator who congratulated Prof Worika on his appointment said the choice was not merely an administrative decision but a statement of intent.
Vice Admiral Ibas (rtd) explained that the new SSG has an unparallel expertise in law, policy and international governance, which align perfectly with the mission to restore law, order, integrity and public trust in Rivers State.
He said: “To our new SSG, the task ahead is onerous, but your track record leaves no doubt in our minds that you will prove your mettle. Rivers State needs your intellect, grit and unweaving dedication. Together, we will write a new chapter of progress for this great state.
“Prof Worika’s role will be critical in driving this vision, ensuring that every policy, every decision and every action is in consonance with this administration’s mandate to restore law and order, stabilize the polity and to create the necessary conditions for the restoration of democratic institutions and representations.”
Vice Admiral Ibas (rtd) pointed to his maiden address to Rivers people wherein he emphasised that his administration will be committed to delivering an effective governance that is anchored on transparency, accountability and service.
He therefore, enjoined the new SSG to brace up to the demands of his office, and offer his best service as required while also working cooperatively with civil servants.
Vice Admiral Ibas (rtd) said: “You have no time to settle down. You must roll up your sleeves and get to work with the team.
“Our civil servants with whom we will work closely to run this administration are critical stakeholders and we must work with them to ensure that the state continues to function effectively during this administration.
“To the Permanent Secretaries and civil servants as a whole, once more I will ask your kind cooperation and support as we work to achieve our objectives at this time,” he added.
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I Am One Of You, Sole Administrator Tells Rivers People …Warns Against Violence, Crude Oil Sabotage
The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd), has assured residents that he is not in the State as a partisan actor or political competitor but as a stabilising force to restore governance and order.
In a state broadcast yesterday, Ibas, who assumed duty at Government House, Port Harcourt, emphasised his commitment to protecting civil liberties and ensuring the safety of all citizens.
However, he issued a stern warning against crude oil sabotage and violence, urging residents to resist any temptation to return to past hostilities.
“For decades, I have dedicated my life to the service of our great nation—first as the 20th indigenous Chief of Naval Staff and later as Nigeria’s High Commissioner to Ghana. I answered this call out of the need for peace in Nigeria, and most importantly, in Rivers State,” Ibas stated.
Describing the prolonged political impasse as a major setback to governance and democracy, he acknowledged the hardships faced by families and businesses due to the prevailing uncertainty.
“As a son of the Niger Delta, I am one of you. I feel the weight of this crisis on families, businesses, and the future of our people,” he said.
Ibas commended President Bola Tinubu’s decisive action in declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State, stressing that it was a necessary move to restore stability and revive economic activities.
“My mandate is clear: restore law and order, ensure stability, and create an enabling environment for economic growth. But this mission requires collective support from all stakeholders, regardless of political affiliation or ethnicity,” he stated.
He discouraged attacks on oil infrastructure, reminding residents of the devastating environmental and economic consequences of such actions.
“The Niger Delta has moved beyond the destruction of oil facilities. We must resist the temptation to return to those ugly days,” he cautioned.
While pledging to uphold civil liberties and the rule of law, the Sole Administrator warned that lawlessness and violence would not be tolerated.
“We will not act arbitrarily, but we will not hesitate to deal decisively with anyone who threatens the peace and stability of Rivers State,” he declared.
Ibas revealed that he had concluded a State Security Council meeting where strategic measures were outlined to de-escalate tensions and prevent further conflict.
Expressing gratitude to President Tinubu for entrusting him with the responsibility, he also acknowledged the National Assembly for approving the emergency declaration.
“I will work closely with the national leadership under the guidance of the President. I am optimistic that Rivers State will emerge stronger and greater,” he concluded.
The Federal Capital Territory Emergency Management Department has confirmed that 10 persons have died in the truck explosion that occurred near Karu bridge, along the Abuja-Keffi Expressway, on Wednesday.
The FEMD’s Head of Public Affairs, Nkechi Isa, confirmed the numbers in a statement, yesterday.
The Acting Director General of the Emergency Department, Abdulrahman Mohammed, had earlier confirmed that eight persons had died as of yesterday morning, with five confirmed dead on the scene, and four others burnt beyond recognition.
““Five people were taken dead from the scene yesterday (Wednesday). Out of the people that were injured, one died, making six. Then this morning (yesterday), when I asked my people to go round, they discovered that two had already died again, making eight. Four of them from yesterday were burnt beyond recognition.”, he explained.
However, in her statement, Isa said the Head, Forecasting Response and Mitigation of FEMD, Mr Mark Nyam, said eight bodies were deposited at the Karu Hospital Morgue, one body at the Asokoro Distinct Hospital Morgue while another body was deposited at the National Hospital.
He added that some victims had been referred to the Gwagwalada Teaching Hospital, Federal Medical Centre, Keffi, and Cedercrest Hospital Abuja for proper care.
Part of the statement reads, “The FCT Emergency Management Department FEMD can confirm that 10 persons lost their lives to the truck explosion that occurred at Karu bridge along Abuja / Keffi expressway.
“The Head Forecasting Response and Mitigation of FEMD, Mr Mark Nyam said eight bodies were deposited at the Karu Hospital Morgue, one body at the Asokoro Distinct Hospital Morgue while another body was deposited at the National Hospital.”
He informed that over 30 persons suffered various degrees of burns.
“Some of the victims have been referred to Gwagwalada Teaching Hospital, Federal Medical Centre,Keffi and Cedercrest Hospital Abuja for proper care,” he said.
Isa also stated that no fewer than 10 vehicles were burnt during the incident, adding that the FEMD boss after a visit to the incident scene, appealed to motorists to observe traffic rules and regulations.
He also cautioned against reckless driving, dangerous overtaking and poor maintenance of vehicles, while urging FCT residents to always use the 112 emergency toll free number in the event of an emergency.
Meanwhile, barely 24 hours after the incident, another fertiliser-laden truck has collapsed on the same spot.
The Tide learnt that the incidence occurred at about 3:54pm yesterday.
The Head of Public Affairs of the FCT Emergency Management Department, Nkechi Isa, confirmed the accident in a statement, stating that the truck collided with a Hijet and a dump truck, adding that no life was lost.
She cautioned road users to drive with caution as the Federal Road Safety Corps was making efforts to tow away the affected vehicles, to avoid traffic built up.
“Another accident has occurred under Karu bridge along the Abuja-Keffi Expressway. Thankfully, no life was lost to the incident. Our Search and Rescue say the accident occurred when a truck laden with fertilizer ran into a Hijet and a dump truck also known as tipper.
“Motorists are advised to drive with caution as the Federal Road Safety Corps is taking steps to tow away the affected vehicles in order to avoid traffic built up,” the statement read.
Meanwhile, several videos showed some persons trying to clear the fertiliser bags from the fallen truck to ease traffic.