Rivers Assembly Urges LG Chairmen to Prioritize People-Centered Governance, Assesses Projects in Bonny

The Rivers State House of Assembly has emphasized the need for local government chairmen across the state to align with Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s “Rivers People First” mantra, ensuring that governance at the grassroots directly benefits the people.

This was made known in a press release issued by the Assembly after an assessment tour by the House Committee on Local Government Affairs to Bonny Local Government Area.

Leading the delegation, Deputy Speaker and Chairman of the Committee, Timothy Adolphus stated that the reason for the tour was to verify that projects have been implemented by local government chairmen and match the claims made in the media.

He commended the Bonny LGA Chairman, Dame Anengi Barasua Claud-Wilcox, DSSRS, for making a strong start in the office and urged all council leaders to uphold the Governor’s vision of people-centred governance.

The House Leader, Goodboy Sokari, who was also part of the delegation, noted that the Committee had visited more than half of the 23 local government areas in the state, delivering the same message of purposeful leadership.

He stressed the importance of synergy between local and state governments, ensuring that development reaches every part of Rivers State.

Responding to the Committee’s visit, Dame Claud-Wilcox outlined several key projects executed within her first 100 days in office, emphasizing that Bonny LGA is fully committed to the Rivers People First initiative.

Among the projects she highlighted were the completion of shore protection at Kuruama community, the development of over 108 plots of land for a new cemetery, and the purchase of 20 minibuses to enhance mass transportation in the area.

She also mentioned the procurement of a refuse compactor truck to improve waste management, the construction of drainages at Akiama/Wilbros Link Road, and the training of councillors to boost governance efficiency.

Other significant initiatives include the completion of the Banigo/Benstowe Link Bridge, the purchase of a tow van and official vehicles for council executives, the acquisition of land for a mechanic village, and an education grant program.

Additionally, she highlighted an SME grant of ₦50,000 given to over 500 small business owners and a skill acquisition program benefiting 300 individuals.

She further noted that the Bonny Secondary Schools Festival was currently underway, alongside several other interventions and development programs.

Following her remarks, the House Committee conducted an inspection of various project sites, accompanied by the LGA chairman and other local government officials.

The Committee’s assessment tour continues across the state, reinforcing the need for effective governance, accountability, and development-driven leadership at all levels.