The candidate for the Rivers South East Senatorial District, contesting under Action Alliance Party, Dr. Douglas Fabeke, has pledged to tackle unemployment, infrastructure deficits, and insecurity if elected, following his emergence from the just-concluded party primary.
Speaking after the primary at the senatorial headquarters in Bori, Khana local government area of Rivers State, Fabeke expressed gratitude to constituents for the mandate, describing it as a collective responsibility to drive progress and equity across the district.
“I stand before you today with a heart full of gratitude and a deep sense of responsibility. I thank you sincerely for the trust and confidence you have reposed in me by giving me this privilege during the just concluded primary election.
This mandate is not mine alone; it belongs to every son and daughter of Rivers South East who desires progress, equity, and dignity for our communities,” he said.
He outlined key areas of focus: “Unemployment remains one of the greatest threats to our peace and productivity.
I will work with federal agencies, private investors, and development partners to attract industries and skill-based enterprises to our district.
My office will also facilitate direct linkages between our youths and job opportunities through structured employment programs and public-private partnerships.”
On infrastructure, he decried the underdevelopment of communities in the district and pledged to push for increased federal presence through legislative advocacy and budgetary interventions targeting roads, electricity, water supply, and rural development.
The candidate also committed to boosting rural economies by supporting agriculture, small and medium enterprises, and cooperative societies through improved access to credit, markets, and modern farming techniques.
Addressing community challenges, Fabeke said he would establish a constituency engagement platform to facilitate dialogue among traditional rulers, youth leaders, and civil society groups to resolve disputes and promote unity.
In the education sector, he promised to attract federal support for the rehabilitation of dilapidated schools, while also promoting vocational and technical training to equip young people with job-ready skills.
On healthcare, Fabeke pledged to advocate for the upgrade of primary healthcare centres, provision of essential drugs, and deployment of medical personnel, alongside preventive and maternal health programmes.
He further emphasised the need for strategic rural development initiatives, including agro-processing hubs, improved market access, and digital connectivity to integrate local communities into the broader economy.
On security and human rights, Fabeke assured constituents of his commitment to strengthening collaboration between communities and security agencies, while promoting accountability and respect for fundamental rights.
He called on stakeholders, including traditional institutions, religious leaders, youth groups, and women organisations, to support his vision for a more inclusive and prosperous Rivers South East.
