The Rivers State Ministry of Information and Communications has decried the painting of the state in a bad light.
The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Pastor Paulinus Nsirim, while in introducing the #OurStateOurResponsibility Campaign to the Rivers State House of Assembly, said the program was designed to make everyone living and doing business in Rivers State realise that Rivers State belongs to them.”
He acknowledged that the state is privileged to have the visionary leadership of Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, who he said has come to right the wrongs of the past, putting the interest of the people first and overhauling all infrastructural deficits thus placing the state on a global map.
Pastor Nsirim stated that unfortunately, the vocal minority had used the media to paint the state in bad light likening the state to a hostile environment, which is not the case.
“We have a welcoming culture, and we don’t discriminate. We remain the hub of Hydrocarbon activity, blessed with two seaports and one airport. Business is booming here,” he stated.
He stateD that all the things said about the State has a political economy aspect that affects everyone, hence people should be able to defend the prosperity and integrity of Rivers State.
The Permanent Secretary called on the legislature to partner with the Ministry of Information and Communications and join in singing the song of #OurStateOurResponsibility.
“Every stakeholder group, including the legislature needs to rise and join hands to change the negative narrative about Rivers State.
“We are convinced that a synergy between the legislature and this ministry to pursue this campaign will make a bold statement for posterity.”
Rt. Hon. Ikuinyi – Owaji Ibani, The Speaker OF House of Assembly, applauded the innovative idea of the Ministry, saying “we have to tell people that Rivers State is safe and secure, for the indigenous people and those that stay here to do their businesses”.
“We are representing people from different constituencies in the state and partnering with the Ministry of Information is a medium that can take this message beyond the confines of our executive offices down to the grassroots.
“The Rivers State House of Assembly, The 9th Assembly to be precise, is on the same page with the campaign, because this state belongs to us all and if we don’t sing our song no one will sing it for us,” he concluded.
