Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to attracting investors to boost the state’s economy. Speaking at the Investiture Dinner organized by the Port Harcourt Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (PHCCIMA) on Thursday, December 12, 2024, Governor Fubara stated that his government is ready to collaborate with all stakeholders to enhance the development of Rivers State.
The governor emphasized the need to create an enabling environment and provide necessary support to businesses and the private sector, which he said is already being demonstrated by his administration. He urged citizens to continue supporting his government’s efforts to achieve more for the state.
“With increased investment, there will be job and wealth creation, which will, in turn, reduce crime and criminality as our youths will be gainfully engaged,” the governor said. “What is needed in Rivers State is an enabling environment, encouragement, and the support of the people to bring out the best.”
Governor Fubara congratulated the new President of PHCCIMA, Dr. Chinyere Nwoga, the first female president of the chamber since its inception, and called on members to give her their full support. He assured her of his administration’s commitment to providing the necessary backing to ensure her success.
“In all, what is important now is that we must all join hands to support this new leadership of PHCCIMA to succeed. It has to succeed because this is the first time a woman is heading the chamber. Men have their own shock absorbers, so it is important for you to give her all the necessary support,” Fubara stated.
During her investiture as the first female President of PHCCIMA, Dr. Chinyere Nwoga expressed gratitude to Governor Fubara for attending the event. She assured attendees of the chamber’s continued collaboration with the government to attract investors to the state. Dr. Nwoga highlighted the chamber’s role as the second largest in the country and its dedication to fostering trade partnerships, ensuring ease of doing business, advocating for necessary infrastructure, and creating access to funding opportunities for businesses in Rivers State.
At the national level, Dr. Nwoga reaffirmed the chamber’s commitment to driving economic development and prosperity through innovative ideas. She emphasized the importance of access to quality education, healthcare, adherence to the rule of law, and the protection of life and property—factors that attract both local and foreign direct investments. She pledged the chamber’s readiness to partner with the government to achieve shared goals and aspirations.
In his remarks, Hyde Ochia, a former president of PHCCIMA, reminisced about his efforts with others to pave the way for the chamber’s first female president. He also recounted his role in ending the practice of re-election within PHCCIMA and the establishment of a “presidential box system” that ensures a smooth leadership succession process. Ochia pledged the full support of all past presidents to ensure Dr. Nwoga’s success.
