Rivers Axes Ibas-Era Secretariat Deal

The Rivers State Executive Council has taken decisive action regarding a major infrastructure project and other key initiatives, including e...

The Rivers State Executive Council has taken decisive action regarding a major infrastructure project and other key initiatives, including education and employment opportunities for the state's youth. A significant decision was made to revoke a substantial contract previously awarded for the renovation of the Rivers State Secretariat Complex.

Secretariat Renovation Contract Revoked

The council has officially revoked the ₦134 billion contract awarded to the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) for the comprehensive renovation, retrofitting, and furnishing of the Rivers State Secretariat Complex. This project was initially awarded under the previous administration. The council has mandated that CCECC immediately return the ₦20 billion mobilization fee that had already been disbursed for the project.

Revalidation of Bidding Processes

In addition to the contract revocation, the council has approved the revalidation of bidding processes for four significant contracts. These projects encompass critical infrastructure development within the state. The projects include:

• Renovation of the State Secretariat Complex: This involves a complete overhaul of the existing structure to modernize and improve its functionality.

• Construction of Reinforced Concrete Shoreline Protection and Reclamation Works: These projects are aimed at protecting vulnerable riverine communities from erosion and land loss. The projects will be implemented in several communities within the Opobo/Nkoro and Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Areas.

  • Specifically, the shoreline protection efforts are targeted at the following communities:
    • Queenstown
    • Epellema
    • Oloma
    • Minima
    • Ndoni-Onukwu
    • Isikwu
    • Aziazagi
    • Utuechi
    • Obiofu
    • Isala
    • Ani-Eze
    • Odugri

It was stated that the bidding documents for these projects were previously cancelled by the prior administration, and fees were returned to the companies that had purchased them.

Concerns Regarding Due Process

Following the State Executive Council meeting, Dr. Austin Ezekiel-Hart, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Works, emphasized that the original contracts were awarded in a rushed manner, without adhering to proper due process and established protocols.

The revalidation process will involve a fresh advertisement in newspapers, inviting competent and experienced contractors to prequalify and submit both technical and commercial bids for the projects. The initial advertisement for these projects appeared in national dailies on February 19, 2025.

Enhancing Education Through Technology

Recognizing the importance of preparing students for the future, the council has also approved the formation of a committee to develop a proposal for the establishment of Computer-Based Test (CBT) Centers and ICT Laboratories across the three senatorial districts of the state.

Dr. Azibaolanari Uzoma-Nwogu, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, highlighted that this initiative aligns with the Federal Government's directive that all examinations conducted by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and the National Examinations Council (NECO) will be computer-based starting in 2026.

The committee responsible for developing the proposal is chaired by the Deputy Governor and includes key officials such as the Secretary to the State Government, Permanent Secretaries from the Ministries of Education, Works, Information and Communications, and the Commissioner for Energy.

This move is intended to equip Rivers State youths with the necessary digital skills and enhance the overall quality of education throughout the state.

Addressing Unemployment and Promoting Economic Empowerment

The council also addressed the critical issue of unemployment among the state's youth. Dr. Chisom Gbali, the Commissioner for Employment Generation and Economic Empowerment, announced that the council reviewed ongoing efforts to create job opportunities for young people in Rivers State.

The ministry has been tasked with developing a comprehensive framework for job creation and economic empowerment. The government aims to create more opportunities for the state's young population.

Addressing Recent Flooding

Finally, the council addressed the recent flash floods that have affected some areas of the state. Dr. Honour Sirawoo, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Communications, stated that the council has directed immediate remedial intervention to mitigate the impact of the floods. Residents were cautioned against improper waste disposal into drainage channels and the construction of buildings on waterways, as these practices exacerbate flooding problems.