Politics

Rivers Government Revokes ₦134 Billion Secretariat Contract and Orders ₦20 Billion Refund While Revalidating Four Key Projects.

In a bold move signaling a commitment to transparency and accountability, the Rivers State Executive Council has revoked a massive ₦134 billion contract previously awarded to the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC). This contract was for the renovation, retrofitting, and furnishing of the Rivers State Secretariat Complex. Along with the revocation, the council has mandated the immediate refund of a ₦20 billion mobilisation fee that was paid out under the previous emergency administration. These decisions highlight the current administration's determination to correct past irregularities and ensure that public funds are managed with the utmost integrity.

The resolutions came out of a State Executive Council meeting held on Thursday at the Government House in Port Harcourt. Governor Siminalayi Fubara presided over the session, where key stakeholders deliberated on pressing issues affecting the state's infrastructure and development. According to Dr. Austin Ezekiel-Hart, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Works, the original contract had been awarded in a hurried manner without adhering to proper due process. This lack of procedural rigor prompted the government to step in, revoke the agreement, and initiate a fresh bidding process to guarantee fairness and competitiveness.

Revalidation of Major Infrastructure Projects

Beyond the contract revocation, the council took proactive steps by approving the revalidation of four significant projects. These initiatives are aimed at enhancing the state's infrastructure, protecting vulnerable communities from environmental threats, and fostering long-term development. Dr. Ezekiel-Hart outlined the projects in detail, emphasizing that fresh advertisements would soon be published. This would allow competent and experienced contractors to prequalify and submit both technical and commercial bids.

The revalidated projects include:

1. Renovation, Retrofitting, and Furnishing of the Rivers State Secretariat Complex: This flagship project, originally tied to the revoked contract, will now proceed under a transparent framework to modernize the administrative hub of the state.

2. Construction of 4.8km Reinforced Concrete Shoreline Protection and Reclamation at Queenstown, Epellema, Oloma, and Minima Communities in Opobo/Nkoro Local Government Area: This effort addresses coastal erosion and land loss, providing essential protection for these riverside communities.

3. Construction of 2.5km Shoreline Protection and Reclamation at Ndoni-Onukwu, Isikwu, and Aziazagi Communities in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area: Similar to the previous project, this one focuses on safeguarding local populations from flooding and environmental degradation.

4. Construction of 2.5km Shoreline Protection and Reclamation in Utuechi, Obiofu, Isala, Ani-Eze, and Odugri Communities, also in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area: This additional shoreline initiative underscores the administration's priority on environmental resilience in flood-prone regions.

Dr. Ezekiel-Hart stressed that the previous bidding process fell short of standards for transparency and competitiveness. By starting afresh, the government aims to deliver value for money and hold all parties accountable. This approach not only rectifies past mistakes but also sets a precedent for future procurements in Rivers State.

Advancing Education Through ICT Initiatives

Shifting focus to education, the council approved the formation of a committee tasked with designing a framework for establishing Computer-Based Test (CBT) Centres and ICT laboratories. These facilities will be set up across the three senatorial districts of the state, ensuring widespread access. Dr. Azibaolanari Uzoma-Nwogu, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education, explained that this move aligns with the Federal Government's directive. Starting from 2026, all West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and National Examinations Council (NECO) exams will transition to a CBT format.

The committee, chaired by the Deputy Governor, includes prominent members such as the Secretary to the State Government, Permanent Secretaries from the Ministries of Education, Works, and Information and Communications, as well as the Commissioner for Energy. Their mandate is to create a robust plan that prepares Rivers youths for a digital future. Dr. Uzoma-Nwogu highlighted how this initiative will elevate the quality of education statewide, equipping students with essential technological skills in an increasingly digital world.

Boosting Employment and Economic Empowerment

Employment generation remains a cornerstone of Governor Fubara's agenda. During the meeting, Dr. Chisom Gbali, the Commissioner for Employment Generation and Economic Empowerment, reported that the council reviewed ongoing programs designed to create jobs and empower the youth. The ministry has been instructed to develop a comprehensive framework for employment generation and entrepreneurship development.

Dr. Gbali assured the public that the administration is committed to delivering on its promises. He described the upcoming efforts as a "rising tide of employment and steady waves of economic empowerment." This focus reflects Governor Fubara's deliberate strategy to provide opportunities, ensuring that young people in Rivers State have pathways to self-reliance and prosperity.

Addressing Flooding and Promoting Environmental Safety

The council also tackled the recent flash floods affecting parts of the state. Dr. Honour Sirawoo, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information and Communications, announced directives for immediate remedial actions to mitigate flooding. Residents were urged to avoid dumping refuse into drainages or building on waterways, as these practices exacerbate the problem.

Dr. Sirawoo reiterated the administration's dedication to sustainable development. He noted that Governor Fubara is focused on restoring public confidence in governance and accelerating socio-economic progress. With renewed energy and purpose, the state is poised to return to a trajectory of sustainable growth, benefiting all citizens.

A Step Toward Transparent Governance

The revocation of the ₦134 billion secretariat contract, coupled with the order for a ₦20 billion refund, exemplifies the Fubara administration's unwavering resolve. By prioritizing transparency, accountability, and fiscal discipline, the government is safeguarding public resources and laying the foundation for equitable development. These actions, from infrastructure revalidation to educational and employment initiatives, demonstrate a holistic approach to addressing Rivers State's challenges. As the state moves forward, residents can expect continued progress under leadership that values integrity and delivers on its commitments.

This has been The Red Hot Report from Pepper Room. The news that bares all.