Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has pledged to revive the abandoned Rex Lawson Cultural Centre in Old Port Harcourt Township, aiming to foster artistic growth and nurture young talents in the arts and cultural sector. Speaking to the press following an inspection of the facility on Monday, November 11, 2024, Governor Fubara described the centre’s current state as “deplorable,” highlighting years of neglect that have left the structure in disrepair.
“We are here to assess the Rex Lawson Cultural Centre, an arts facility constructed by a previous administration. Unfortunately, it has been unused for a significant period, and as you can see, it is in a deplorable state. We are considering the possibility of refurbishing it to support young people who are interested in arts and culture,” the governor said.
Governor Fubara further disclosed plans to establish an Art and Culture Training School, positioning it at the cultural centre as part of a broader strategy to stimulate Rivers State’s entertainment and cultural industries. “Our plan includes establishing a training school, with this facility serving as its base. That’s why we’re here—to salvage it and put this facility to good use,” he added.
Accompanied by Commissioner for Special Projects, Dr. Roland Obed-Whyte, and Culture and Tourism Commissioner, Hon. Israel Lebura Ngbuelu, the governor also reviewed progress on the Woji-Aleto-Alesa-Refinery link road project. The 6.5-kilometer road, which includes a 200-meter bridge, is expected to provide an alternative route to the heavily deteriorated Eleme sections of the East-West road, aiming to improve connectivity and reduce travel challenges in the area.
