The Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to gender inclusion, sound planning and evidence-based decision-making, describing statistics as indispensable to sustainable development.
Governor Fubara made the declaration while hosting participants at the 2025 Second Bi-Annual Meeting of the National Consultative Committee on Statistics (NCCS) during a gala night held at the Banquet Hall of Government House, Port Harcourt.
Represented by his Deputy, Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu, the governor said Rivers State remains firmly committed to gender-sensitive governance, noting that the appointment of women to key and high-ranking leadership positions clearly reflects the administration’s inclusive philosophy.
According to him, women entrusted with leadership responsibilities in the state have consistently demonstrated competence and diligence, justifying the confidence reposed in them.
“Rivers State is a gender-sensitive state, as evidenced by the appointment of women to very high leadership positions. Women work hard to ensure they do not disappoint the trust placed in them. I encourage stakeholders to involve more women; you will not regret it,” the governor said.
Governor Fubara also commended the NCCS for choosing Rivers State as host of the important national meeting, describing the selection as a reflection of the state’s growing relevance and commitment to best practices in governance. He assured delegates of the state’s peaceful disposition, robust security architecture and investment-friendly environment.
He noted that this was the second time Rivers State would be hosting the NCCS meeting in three years, an indication, he said, that the state is “doing something right,” while pledging to continue improving governance standards.
Describing statistics as the backbone of planning and governance, the governor stressed that no meaningful development could occur without accurate data and logical analysis. He explained that statistics play a critical role across sectors, including policymaking, governance and development planning.
Governor Fubara expressed confidence that deliberations at the meeting would generate innovative ideas capable of advancing Nigeria’s development. He urged participants to remain committed to strengthening national data systems through continuous evaluation and regular biennial reviews.
