…Declares Immediate Action on Secretariat Renovation Plan
By Mandy Willy
Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has expressed gratitude to God that no life was lost in Monday’s fire outbreak that affected a section of the Rivers State Secretariat Complex in Port Harcourt.
The governor, who visited the site on Tuesday for an on-the-spot assessment, described the incident as unfortunate but reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the safety and welfare of workers. He also announced the **immediate activation of the planned comprehensive renovation of the State Secretariat.
“It is really unfortunate, but we give God all the glory that no life was lost,” the governor said. “The Secretariat has a crèche that cares for babies of civil servants, and that was the most affected section.”
Governor Fubara explained that plans for the Secretariat’s renovation had long been on the drawing board but that the fire incident has made its execution a matter of urgency.
“The renovation and refurbishing of this foremost State Secretariat have been part of our plans. With this particular incident, there will be no reason not to proceed. Whatever it will take for government to commence the process, we will immediately swing into action,” he assured.
The governor commended civil servants for their patience and understanding, noting that government investments are often not immediately appreciated but ultimately serve the people’s long-term good.
Governor Fubara further recalled his administration’s proactive steps in revamping the State Fire Service, saying that effort proved crucial in containing Monday’s inferno.
“Before this incident, our government had invested in refurbishing the fire service. Imagine what would have happened if we didn’t have a functional fire service. We will continue to take actions that uplift our people and make them happy,” he stated.
The Rivers State governor reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to rebuild and modernize the Secretariat complex to ensure a safer and more conducive working environment for all civil servants.
