Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara has announced an ambitious set of development projects aimed at unlocking unprecedented growth in Kalabari land, signaling a transformative era for the region. Speaking at a press conference held at the Banquet Hall of Government House in Port Harcourt on Tuesday, Feb. 11, the governor received a delegation of monarchs, political leaders, elders, women, and youths from across Kalabari, led by the Amanyanabo of Abonnema, King Disreal Gbobo Bobmanuel. The gathering, marked by a strong show of solidarity, was convened to discuss the state’s developmental blueprint and reaffirm the community’s support for Fubara’s leadership.
“We’re genuinely opening up Kalabari land for development and economic growth,” Governor Fubara declared passionately. “Somebody said, if I don’t do it for my people, who will do it for them? We ventured into the Trans-Kalabari Road, we didn’t close our eyes. Our eyes were open because we knew what we were entering into. It is not a joke; it is a big project. We believe that at the end of that project, the level of development that it will attract to that line of entry into Kalabari will be very unprecedented.”
The governor’s remarks highlight one of the flagship initiatives of his administration—the Trans-Kalabari Road project, which is designed to link Kalabari land directly to the state capital, Port Harcourt. This project is expected to significantly reduce the region’s reliance on waterways, thereby lowering transportation costs and enhancing security by curbing the prevalent issues of riverine insecurity. “Issues of insecurity from our waterways will be reduced because, at that point, we are doing road. People won’t be using the river anymore. The cost of living will also be cheaper,” he added.
Governor Fubara stressed that the impact of these projects goes beyond infrastructure. “So, you understand that your interest, your safety, your development is key to us. It is not about the number of years that we are going to be here; what is important to this government is the impact we make while we are here,” he stated, reinforcing his administration’s commitment to leaving a lasting legacy regardless of their tenure.
The governor also reflected on the challenges posed by political adversaries. “Power belongs to God. So, you see, I like believing that we don’t have any problem. When we get to the bridge, we will cross it. If we can break the bridge, Moses will come and create a road for us. So, you don’t need to worry. We will cross the bridge. We will cross it in a way that our enemies will be struggling; they won’t see where we are passing. So, don’t worry,” he confidently declared. This statement resonated deeply with the audience, symbolizing his unwavering determination to overcome obstacles despite opposition from rival political factions.
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Fubara did not stop at infrastructure and security. He provided an update on other critical projects: “I am pleased to announce that our administration has completed the Emohua/Tema Junction Road project. We are also ready to inaugurate the Degema Zonal Hospital in May, and the Health Commissioner has been directed to assess the state of the Abonnema General Hospital for immediate rehabilitation. Additionally, we will address issues of shore protection in the area. With the Abonnema sandfilling works completed, phase two will commence and include Buguma,” he explained.
The governor also touched on educational initiatives, responding to community requests for a tertiary institution in the region. “Our administration is already inundated with memos asking that the off-campus of Rivers State University, established previously, be revised because it has become difficult to sustain them. Rest assured, we will consider the establishment of a viable institution that will provide technical and entrepreneurial skills to our people in a sustained manner,” he promised.
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At the event, the Kalabari delegation delivered a joint address endorsing Gov Fubara for a second term. In his remarks, Chief Pawariso Samuel Horsfall, representing the Kalabari Ethnic Nationality, announced, “The entire Kalabari people have unanimously endorsed Governor Fubara for a second term, and we vow to mobilize Rivers people to ensure electoral victory for him in the 2027 gubernatorial election.” King Disreal Gbobo Bobmanuel, the Amanyanabo of Abonnema, also expressed heartfelt thanks to the governor, citing his genuine love and commitment to Kalabari’s welfare as the driving force behind the transformative projects.
The overwhelming support from the Kalabari community, coupled with the promise of strategic, tangible development projects, paints a picture of a dynamic administration determined to bring about long-term economic growth and improved living standards in the region. Governor Fubara’s resolute tone and clear vision have inspired hope among his constituents that Kalabari land, long marginalized in terms of development, is finally poised for a renaissance.
With these initiatives in place, the governor assured that his administration would remain laser-focused on delivering quality projects that not only address infrastructural deficits but also foster sustainable growth and security. “We are here to build a future that benefits every citizen, ensuring that our legacy is one of transformation and progress. Your support and trust are the pillars on which we build our future,” Governor Fubara concluded.
As the event drew to a close at Government House, the energy in the room was palpable—a mix of determination, hope, and renewed commitment to the shared vision for a prosperous Kalabari. The success of these projects is seen as critical not only for the economic upliftment of Kalabari land but also for setting a benchmark for development across Rivers State and beyond.
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