The Executive Chairman of Opobo/Nkoro Local Government Area, Hon. James A. James, has marked his first year in office with the commissioning of infrastructure projects, empowerment initiatives, and interventions in security, sanitation, and community development.
The anniversary activities, held over approximately two weeks in October 2026, featured the inauguration of completed projects, distribution of equipment and support materials, recognition of former council chairmen and a special thanksgiving service.
Among the projects commissioned was the newly constructed internal road network at the Opobo/Nkoro Council Secretariat, alongside the presentation of official vehicles to the Council Secretary, councillors of the 8th Assembly and other beneficiaries.
The administration also reconstructed the King Jaja Landing Jetty to improve waterfront transportation and connectivity. Fibre boats, fishing nets and motorcycles were distributed to beneficiaries, including youths, as part of its economic empowerment programme.
In the electricity sector, the council highlighted interventions at the Minimah Power House and the Iwo-Ama, Nkoro electrification project. It also constructed toilet facilities at Dappa Compound and Okpukpo to improve sanitation and environmental hygiene.
Other road projects commissioned included the Abariko Internal Rigid Concrete Pavement Road and Brown Compound Internal Road in Opobo.
The administration also inaugurated a newly constructed council outpost office in Nkoro to strengthen its administrative presence and bring government services closer to residents.
As part of the anniversary, the council celebrated the 30th anniversary of Opobo/Nkoro LGA’s creation and presented awards to former council chairmen in recognition of their contributions to the area’s development.
The remodelled Opobo Customary Court Complex at Opobo Two was also commissioned. The President of the Rivers State Customary Court of Appeal, Justice Ihemanacho Wilfred Obuzor, was represented by Justice Ngei Tetenwi.
Another major project was the commissioning of an ultra-modern lodge comprising 24 self-contained apartments for National Youth Service Corps members in Nkoro. The facility was named after Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Barr. Sunny Ewule.
The council also distributed oil mill processing machines to beneficiaries to support cassava processing, particularly garri production, and strengthen local economic activities.
Beyond the anniversary projects, the administration highlighted other interventions in security and public infrastructure.
These included the provision of two Sienna vehicles to the ASAWANA Police and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), as well as a speedboat and motorcycle for the ASAWANA Police in Nkoro.
The council also supplied a 75-horsepower engine, provided batteries and overhauled Marine Police engines. Another vehicle was purchased for Opobo/Nkoro Internal Security.
Other interventions included the renovation of the Army Quarters, Nkoro Council of Chiefs Hall and the Opobo/Nkoro Council Secretariat.
A resting house was also constructed at Saint Paul’s Waterfront to provide accommodation and convenience for residents and travellers heading to Minimah and other Kala-Ama communities, particularly those using water transportation.
In addition, the administration completed the construction of two Mobile Police Posts, one in Opobo and another in Nkoro. Both facilities are awaiting official commissioning.
The anniversary activities concluded with a thanksgiving service at The Apostolic Church Nigeria, Nkoro Town, in honour of the chairman and his family. A reception followed at King Kpokpo Waterfront, with political leaders, traditional rulers, community stakeholders and other dignitaries in attendance.
Reflecting on the administration’s first year, the council said its interventions had focused on road infrastructure, electricity, sanitation, security, public facilities, justice administration and economic empowerment.
The administration also called for continued cooperation among residents, traditional institutions, political leaders and other stakeholders as it pursues further development across Opobo/Nkoro Local Government Area.
The chairman’s first year, according to the anniversary message, marks a foundation for further service and development, with the administration declaring that its work continues.
