Gov Fubara Commissions Rivers’ First Permanent Secretaries’ Quarters

Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has today (Monday, December 22, 2025), commissioned the state’s first-ever purpose-built Permanent Secretaries’ Quarters in Elimgbu Community, Obio-Akpor Local Government Area, marking a major step toward improving staff welfare and strengthening institutional capacity in the civil service.

The commissioning was performed by the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Dr. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, and was witnessed by members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Working Committee, led by the party’s National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Bashiru.

Governor Fubara said the housing scheme was designed to enhance the living conditions, health, and productivity of senior civil servants, noting that staff welfare remains central to effective governance.

“Insecurity begins when people are uncertain of what the next hour holds. This is even more difficult for family men and women, as it affects confidence and decision-making,” the Governor said.

He stressed the strategic importance of the Permanent Secretary cadre, describing them as key drivers of policy coordination and service delivery. According to him, providing official accommodation and related support would enable them to carry out their responsibilities with greater focus and professionalism.

“When these basic needs are met, civil servants can dedicate themselves fully to their duties with a stronger sense of responsibility. This initiative will, in time, be extended to other categories of staff,” Fubara added.

The Governor urged beneficiaries to protect the facilities and directed the State Head of Service to appoint a facility manager to ensure proper maintenance and sustainability of the estate. He noted that improved welfare would discourage sharp practices, enhance productivity, and contribute to the overall development of Rivers State and the country.

In her remarks, Dr. Didi Esther Walson-Jack commended the Rivers State Government for what she described as a strategic investment in staff welfare and institutional continuity. She said the project reflects a deliberate commitment to the dignity and productivity of senior public servants and urged beneficiaries to reciprocate with renewed dedication to service.

“The commissioning of these quarters underscores a conscious effort to support those entrusted with policy coordination and service delivery. The quality of the design and facilities is commendable,” she said.

Also speaking, APC National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Bashiru, described Rivers State as the first fully APC-controlled state in the South-South and called on residents to continue supporting the party’s governance agenda, noting that progress at the state level contributes to national development.

The Rivers State Head of Civil Service, Dr. Inyingi Brown, described the project as historic, noting that it was conceived, executed, and completed within record time under Governor Fubara’s leadership. She reaffirmed the civil service’s commitment to supporting the administration’s developmental agenda.

Providing technical details, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Works, Dr. Austin Ezekiel-Hart, said the estate consists of 29 housing units, made up of nine standalone duplexes and 20 terrace buildings. He added that the quarters are equipped with modern facilities including a water treatment plant, synchronized power generators, CCTV and alarm systems, a gymnasium, recreational areas, and landscaped green spaces designed to promote comfort, efficiency, and productivity.

The commissioning marks a significant milestone in Rivers State’s efforts to improve public service delivery through enhanced staff welfare and infrastructure development.