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With a focus on long-term development, Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has revealed plans to establish a higher institution in Opobo Town. The institution is intended to serve as a catalyst for academic achievement and economic sustainability, offering new opportunities for local residents while contributing to the broader socio-economic fabric of the region.
Governor Fubara further assured that land reclamation projects would be a key component of the state’s development agenda, providing much-needed space for critical infrastructure. These initiatives are expected to improve the daily lives of the people while generating new job opportunities and driving economic progress.
This pledge was made by Governor Fubara as he inaugurated the newly completed 7-kilometer Opobo Town Ring Road, a vital project that features three crossing bridges. The ceremony, held on Monday in the Opobo/Nkoro Local Government Area, highlights the state’s ongoing efforts to improve transportation infrastructure and enhance regional connectivity.
This new road, expected to significantly improve connectivity within Opobo Town and the surrounding regions, is viewed as an essential move towards revitalizing the area. It is seen not only as a transportation upgrade but as a catalyst for broader economic and social progress, bringing much-needed change to the local community.
He said, “Other developments are on the way. We intend to bring a higher institution here. We will also carry out more reclamation, as land is a major challenge in this area. We will empower the people so they won’t depend solely on me, and we’ll work to create an environment that fosters employment and economic growth. That is the path to Opobo’s growth.”
Fubara also highlighted that while the project was initially launched on May 28, 2023, by the previous administration, it was his government that redesigned and executed it to meet the current standards.
“This is a project that speaks to me. It’s something my people will see, and it reflects my leadership,” he added.
He expressed deep gratitude to the people of Opobo/Nkoro for their ongoing support and commitment, acknowledging their role in his success.
“I know your faces, your names, and your needs,” Fubara said. “Thank you for standing by us when it mattered most. We’re stronger every day.”
Read also: Fubara Pledges to End Political Violence In Rivers State
The governor urged political leaders, traditional rulers, and citizens to maintain the peace Opobo is known for, stressing that it is vital to preserving the community’s harmony and security.
“Opobo/Nkoro is known for its peace, and while we’re not crime-free, the situation is manageable. This peace is what binds us together, and I ask you to continue nurturing it,” he said.
Among the dignitaries at the inauguration ceremony was Dr. Dauda Lawal, the Governor of Zamfara State, who lauded Governor Fubara for his exceptional leadership. He praised Fubara’s visionary approach to development, noting that such leadership was essential for driving meaningful change in the region.
Lawal highlighted the Ring Road project as a clear demonstration of how infrastructure can be a powerful driver of socio-economic growth. He stressed its transformative impact on well-being and progress, particularly for rural communities, where access to better roads and connectivity can significantly change lives.
Governor Lawal expressed confidence that the Opobo Ring Road and its bridges would transform the region by improving connectivity, promoting trade, and giving residents access to essential services. He added that the infrastructure would serve as a magnet for investment, fuel tourism, and strengthen the sense of pride and community within Opobo.