Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, on Monday, December 22, 2025, commissioned the state’s first purpose-built Permanent Secretaries’ Quarters in Elimgbu Community, Obio-Akpor Local Government Area, marking a major milestone in civil service welfare and institutional development.
The commissioning was performed by the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Dr Didi Esther Walson-Jack, and witnessed by members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Working Committee, led by the party’s National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Bashiru.
Governor Fubara said the housing scheme was designed to improve living standards, promote healthy work-life balance and enhance productivity among senior civil servants.
He noted that uncertainty about basic needs such as accommodation often undermines confidence and effective decision-making, particularly for senior public officers with family responsibilities.
He stressed the strategic importance of the Permanent Secretary cadre, describing the provision of official accommodation as critical to their welfare and optimal service delivery. According to him, addressing these fundamental needs would enable civil servants to focus fully on their responsibilities with dedication and integrity, adding that similar welfare initiatives would, in due course, be extended to other categories of staff.
The governor urged beneficiaries to protect the facilities and directed the State Head of Service to appoint a facility manager to ensure proper maintenance and sustainability. He said the initiative would discourage sharp practices, improve productivity and contribute to the overall development of Rivers State and the nation.
In her remarks, Dr Walson-Jack commended the project, describing it as a strategic investment in staff welfare and institutional continuity. She urged beneficiaries to see the quarters as a call to renewed professionalism and commitment, praising the modern design and quality amenities provided.
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“The commissioning of these houses reflects a deliberate commitment to the dignity, welfare and productivity of senior public servants entrusted with policy coordination and service delivery,” she said.
APC National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Bashiru, described Rivers State as the first fully APC-controlled state in the South-South, calling on residents to support the party’s governance agenda. He noted that achievements at the state level contribute to broader national development.
Rivers State Head of Service, Dr Inyingi Brown, described the project as historic, noting that it was conceived, executed and completed within record time under Governor Fubara’s leadership. She said the initiative signalled a clear shift toward enhanced service delivery through improved staff welfare and reaffirmed the civil service’s support for the governor’s developmental agenda.
Earlier, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Works, Dr Austin Ezekiel-Hart, disclosed that the estate consists of 29 housing units, comprising nine standalone duplexes and 20 terrace buildings. He said the facility includes a water treatment plant, synchronized power generators, CCTV and alarm systems, a gym, recreational areas and landscaped green spaces, all designed to enhance comfort, efficiency and productivity.By Tina Amanda
