Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has described the past 23 months as ‘wahala’, stating that political instability and institutional challenges constrained his administration’s ability to deliver governance at the desired pace.
Naijaonpoint reports that Fubara spoke on Saturday in Bonny Local Government Area during a reception organised in his honour by the Amanyanabo (king) and Natural Ruler of Bonny Kingdom, King Edward Asimini William Dappa, and the Grand Bonny Chiefs’ Council.
Fubara was in Bonny to witness the Iria ceremony for Her Royal Highness, Queen Paula Tamunoipirinye Pepple, the monarch’s wife, which took place at Ikuba Square and attracted traditional rulers, chiefs, and key stakeholders from the kingdom.
He acknowledged that the political crisis that plagued the state significantly slowed governance in the first 23 months of his administration and assured the people of the Bonny Kingdom that his government is now repositioned to deliver stronger, more visible development across the state.
He said, “Twenty-three months of my administration has been wahala. The instruments meant to deliver good governance are the same ones making things difficult. It has never been our intention to deny our people the true feel of government. ”
Fubara also noted that his administration had made measurable progress in key sectors, particularly education and infrastructure, despite past challenges.
According to him, the inherited projects in Bonny were yielding positive results, and their strategic importance as a global economic hub required a stronger, more visible presence of the Rivers State Government to complement multinational operations, especially the NLNG.
He noted, “Bonny has expanded. It needs internal roads, shore protection and more economic activities. NLNG is here, and the government must also be here.”
Fubara announced plans to construct new internal road networks, implement shoreline protection projects to address erosion and roll out initiatives to stimulate local economic activities.
He said, “Before the end of the first quarter of 2026, you will see and feel the presence of the Rivers State Government in Bonny. Our relationship is not based on benefits but on sincerity and mutual respect. No matter what happens, I will continue to stand with you. ”
Fubara also accepted the traditional honour conferred on him as Amaopu Senibo of Grand Bonny, describing it as a call to greater service to the people of Bonny and Rivers State.
He added, “Chieftaincy is a sign of responsibility. It is a call to duty to Bonny and Rivers State, and I will not let you down.”