On Thursday, April 4, 2024, came to the fore, the genuine concern for a better Rivers State where opportunities for greater prosperity abound.
This was exactly the passion of Sir Siminalayi Fubara, Governor of Rivers State when he rolled up the sleeves to perform the groundbreaking for the multi-billion naira one-stop shop Port Harcourt International Automobile Spare Parts Trading and Commercial Centre at Kilometer 17, Elelenwo/Rumukrushe in Obio Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State.
Indeed, history was made by its flag off as it is a facility with diverse dimensions of positive impacts on Rivers people when completed.
As part of the key campaign promises of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, he has diligently followed through in reviving the dream of a one-stop shop for spare parts and automobile businesses in the State by taking the bold step to commence its ultimate realization.
As he asserted, “we are a responsive government that believes in the well-being and growth of our state.” He emphasised that the effort towards transforming every sector is a genuine desire to do so, as he is most interested in elevating the development trajectory of the state to be among the best of States in Nigeria.
Obviously, the scripture has already captured this mindset in saying, “by their fruits, we shall know them.” By the fruit of positive action and genuine commitment to peace, Sir Siminalayi Fubara has truly acquitted himself demonstrating the true fruit of the spirit of God.
Apparently, the Port Harcourt International Automobile Spare Parts Trading and Commercial Centre is one of its kind that will certainly attract more investments into Rivers State with its attendant opportunities.
Apart from increased values to business owners in the sector and improved revenue to the government, the facility with its components will provide massive jobs and create peace by a way of reducing restiveness and crime. In addition, the facility comes handy in tackling the menace of littered spare parts shops, mechanic workshops and other associated commercial activities all around Port Harcourt that overtime decimated the beautiful ambiance of the city.
Describing the components of the facility which is expected to be completed in 36 months, the Managing Director of the partner organization GOSH Project Nigeria Limited, Mr. Jeff Ayi Oko said it is a one-stop shop that encompasses diverse business activities.
He listed the components to include, a 10,000 lock-up shops, a modern car showroom that will feature all vehicle brands as they have secured assurances from Toyota, Mercedes, Hyundai and other brands to be part of the Centre when completed. Other features of the centre are 50 industrial Warehouses for Importers and Exporters, 25 banking facilities, 25 brand plazas for the major brand Importers such as Bua, Dangote, etc. There is also an ultra modern shopping complex for all inclusive trading, an ultra modern mechanics complex for diagnositics and repairs, a 10,000 car park facility, food courts, mega filling stations, hotels and export/import facilities.
In fact, this arrangement became possible after the governor conducted an evaluation on why the project became stunted. To mitigate the issues, the administration of Sir Siminalayi Fubara paid off the initial partners to pave the way for GOSH Project Nigeria Limited with better capacity and competence to embark on such landmark projects.
At the flag off, both the host and business communities were elated by the show of commitment exhibited by Governor Siminalayi Fubara to execute the project.
Of course, the joy of the people knew no bound as they completely believe and support the strides of Governor Siminalayi Fubara in leaving enduring legacies in infrastructure that will touch the lives of the people positively.
These are truly the legacies that are making the difference in Rivers State today.
Boniface Onyedi SSA, Media to the Governor of Rivers State.
