Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria — Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, the elected leader of Rivers State in southern Nigeria’s oil-rich Niger Delta region, has sworn in five new commissioners to strengthen the state’s executive cabinet.
The swearing-in ceremony took place at the Government House in Port Harcourt, the capital city of Rivers State.
The newly appointed commissioners are Mr. Tonye Bellgam, Professor Temple Nwofor, Dr. Peters Nwagor, Mr. Lekue Kenneth, and Sir Amairigha Edward Hart. They will serve as members of the Rivers State Executive Council, the body that assists the governor in implementing government policies and overseeing ministries responsible for public administration and development programmes.
Addressing the appointees during the ceremony, Governor Fubara urged them to see their positions as a call to serve the people of the state and contribute to its development. He stressed the need for dedication, transparency, and loyalty while carrying out their duties in government.
The governor reminded them that residents of Rivers State have high expectations from the current administration and encouraged them to apply their knowledge and experience to design policies and programmes that will positively affect citizens across the state.
Okay News reports that the appointments followed a confirmation process conducted by the Rivers State House of Assembly, the legislative arm of the Rivers State government responsible for reviewing and approving executive nominations.
Governor Fubara noted that the commissioners emerged from what he described as one of the most demanding screening exercises ever conducted by the state legislature.
“My comment will be to charge you on what you are supposed to do and how you are supposed to operate, but I think that aspect has already been taken care of by the House of Assembly. I believe that going through one of the most rigorous screenings, it is enough to say that for those of you who succeeded, you are fit and ready to deliver to our dear state.”
The appointment of the five commissioners is expected to strengthen the administrative structure of the Rivers State government as it pursues policies aimed at improving infrastructure, public services, and economic development.
Rivers State is one of Nigeria’s key oil-producing regions and plays a major role in the country’s energy economy. Commissioners oversee government ministries and help translate the governor’s policies into practical programmes that affect millions of residents.
With the oath of office administered, the newly appointed commissioners are expected to begin their official duties immediately as members of the state executive council.
