Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has expressed readiness to work closely with the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) to revive and maximise the use of seaports in the state for economic growth and job creation.
Governor Fubara disclosed this yesterday Monday, September 22, 2025, when he received the NPA Board led by its Chairman, Senator Clement Adedayo Adeyeye, at Government House, Port Harcourt. The visit marked his first official engagement since resuming office after a six-month suspension.
Highlighting the strategic importance of maritime infrastructure to economic development, Fubara stressed that thriving economies are built on strong aviation and seaport facilities.
“In Rivers State, we are blessed with the Port Harcourt Port and the Onne Port. The only challenge is that these facilities are underutilised. We must work together to change this,” he said.
The governor noted that full activation of Onne Port in particular would not only enhance export opportunities for manufacturers but also stimulate massive employment and business growth in Eleme, Tai, and neighbouring areas.
While acknowledging the poor state of the federal road leading to the ports, he appealed to the Federal Government to expedite its completion. He further emphasised that addressing unemployment through port activities would also reduce insecurity in the state.
Fubara assured the NPA Board of his administration’s support in areas within the state’s jurisdiction, including facilitating the construction of a befitting police station to strengthen port security.
In his remarks, NPA Board Chairman, Senator Adeyeye, commended Governor Fubara for receiving the delegation on his very first day back in office, describing it as “a good omen” for Rivers State.
He lauded the governor’s calm and peaceful disposition, noting that such qualities reflect true statesmanship.
Senator Adeyeye outlined some of the pressing issues affecting the ports, including bad access roads, security concerns, indiscriminate trailer parking, and the absence of adequate police infrastructure.
He also pledged NPA’s commitment to supporting host communities through corporate social responsibility projects in partnership with the state government.
