Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has pledged equitable development for Akabuka, the hometown of Deputy Governor, Prof. Ngozi Odu, in Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni Local Government Area.
Speaking at a grand reception held in Odu’s honour at Government Secondary School, Akabuka, Governor Fubara acknowledged concerns over the community’s perceived neglect — particularly the poor condition of the host school, which was last renovated two decades ago.
He attributed the delay in development to two years of political crises that disrupted governance but assured residents that peace has now paved the way for progress.
“I apologize for the embarrassment my deputy has faced over the lack of visible projects here. We will begin immediate action,” Fubara stated, directing the Ministry of Education to assess the school’s needs and the Ministry of Works to evaluate internal roads for renovation.
The governor emphasized that lasting peace remains the foundation for meaningful development, commending the current stability that enabled the event’s successful turnout.
He also expressed appreciation to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Chief Nyesom Wike, for his instrumental role in his and Prof. Odu’s political emergence, vowing never to take the opportunity for granted.
Fubara urged Akabuka’s traditional rulers, youths, and women to continue upholding peace, assuring them that a stable environment would attract widespread transformation across Rivers State.
In her remarks, Deputy Governor Prof. Ngozi Odu described the occasion as a great honour for Akabuka, commending Governor Fubara for personally attending and reaffirming his commitment to unity and peace.
She also acknowledged the support of prominent Rivers leaders, including former Governor Sir Dr. Peter Odili, Chief Nyesom Wike, Ambassador Desmond Akawor, and Chief Ferdinand Anabraba, for their roles in her political journey.
Chairman of the occasion, Prof. Jason Osai, hailed Governor Fubara as “an icon of peace,” noting that the event symbolized the end of a 184-day political crisis in the state.
He praised Prof. Odu as a model of leadership and integrity for Akabuka, the Orashi region, and Rivers State at large.
