April 04, (THEWILL) – Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas has appealed for collaboration and cooperation of the National Assembly in securing federal support for Rivers State infrastructural projects.
The Rivers Administrator made the appeal on Friday when he received on courtesy visit, members of the Senate Committee on Works at the Government House in Port Harcourt.
The Committee, led by its Chairman, Senator Barinada Mpigi, said they were in the State to carry out oversight on some ongoing federal projects.
Welcoming the lawmakers, Ibas said their presence signifies “the commitment of the National Assembly to the well-being of our state and it’s people, especially as we work towards addressing the insecurity as well as the infrastructure challenges that are critical to our development.
“As you embark on this oversight visit to access the state of critical infrastructure, I will like to emphasise the significance of this engagement.
“Rivers State, the Treasure Base of the Nation and the key economic hub of the nation, is known to vital infrastructure, including roads, bridges, sea and airport, oil and gas facilities, petrochemical, refineries and other essential facilities.
“However, as in most states of the nation, we are faced with challenges in maintaining and expanding these infrastructure due to various factors, including but not limited to resource constrains.
“Since my resumption on the 20th of March, 2025, I prioritised the restoration of peace and stability in the state. Our efforts have been focused on creating a conducive environment for investment, development and prosperity.
“We have engaged in productive consultation with key stakeholders, such as civil society organisations, traditional rulers, Local Government Heads, government officials and civil servants to restore the trust and stability needed for sustainable progress.
“That being said, we recognise the restoration and development of infrastructure as foundational to achieving lasting peace, economic growth and prosperity.
“I respectfully request the cooperation of your esteem committee in securing the necessary federal support for our state infrastructural projects. You have listed most of the projects that are ongoing presently. These include both financial backing and the facilitation of speedy execution of federal projects that will contribute to our states growth.
“Your continued advocacy within the National Assembly will be instrumental in ensuring that Rivers State receives the attention and resources needed to succeed.
“Relatedly, we are in the process of putting together a new budget that reflects our commitment to healthcare, education, social services and the continued infrastructural development of our state.
“We have worked diligently to ensure that this process is transparent, inclusive and most importantly expediting. The new budget, which is nearing finalisation, focuses on creating jobs opportunities and investing in key sectors such as agriculture, infrastructure and technology.
“As we moved forward with this initiatives, we need your continued support to help us secure necessary resources and legislative backing to bring them to fruition. Your partnership is critical to our success in ensuring that Rivers State remains on the path of progress and enduring peace for future generations.
“In conclusion, I believe that with your support and continued collaboration, we can transform Rivers State into a model of peace, prosperity and development. Together, we can overcome the challenges we face and create a future that is bright for all our people.”
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