Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has reinforced his administration’s commitment to fostering a conducive environment for the growth of key sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, small and medium enterprises, and essential services. The governor emphasized that these sector are of great importance to positioning the state’s economy competitively.
Speaking during the inauguration of the maiden Governing Board of the Rivers State Investment Promotion Agency, Fubara urged the board members to focus on attracting genuine investors in critical sectors. This, he said, would drive the state’s progress towards self-sustainability.
The six-member board, inaugurated at the Government House in Port Harcourt, is chaired by Lawrence Anga, SAN, with Dr. Chamberlain Peterside as Director-General and Mrs. Tamunoibuemi Life-George serving as Secretary. Other members include Mr. Goodliffe Nmekini, Havey Ideozu, and Lenusikpugi Kpagih.
Fubara noted that Rivers State was once a leading economic hub, attracting numerous business interests. However, the rapid expansion and population growth were poorly managed, leaving the state economically disadvantaged. Reflecting on this, the governor expressed his commitment to restoring the state’s former economic stature.
“We might be celebrating that we have a significant allocation and improved Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), but there’s still much work to be done, especially through this agency,” the governor remarked.
He further stated the agency’s mission is to reassure former businesses that left Rivers State for various reasons that the state is ready to welcome them back. With its abundant natural resources, including oil and gas, Rivers State is well-positioned for growth.
Governor Fubara pointed to the potential revival of the Trans-Amadi Industrial Layout and the development of other key economic hubs such as Onne Town and the Ogba-Egbema gas hub, areas central to the promises made during his election campaign.
The governor stated the agency’s role in harnessing the state’s economic and human potential to transform Rivers into a competitive economic gateway. He stressed that Rivers State is now focused on serious business partnerships that benefit all parties sustainably.
“The goal is to develop Rivers State economically, so that even without federal allocation, we can sustain ourselves through our IGR,” Fubara stated. He acknowledged the challenges the board may face, particularly from those resistant to change, but urged the members to remain steadfast in their mission.
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The governor urged the board to prioritize sectors such as agriculture and manufacturing, which have the potential to address unemployment and drive wealth creation in the state. He emphasized that the agency’s focus should not be limited to real estate but should include industries that promote production and employment.
In his acceptance speech, the Chairman of the Governing Board, Lawrence Anga, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and acknowledged the immense task ahead. He noted the governor’s foresight in selecting a team of distinguished and experienced individuals to carry out this vital mandate.
Anga concluded, “For every challenge, there is an opportunity, and what His Excellency has done is to tell us: go and look for those opportunities.”
