The incoming Sim Fubara led administration appears poised to upscale the economic viability of Rivers State as it has announced plans to deepen collaboration with the Federal Government to emplace stimulants that will jumpstart the economy.

Former acting Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Ibim Semenitari disclosed this on Thursday, May 18, 2023 during Press Conference in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

She said Siminalayi Fubara would initiate and sustain collaborative engagements with the relevant agencies and institutions under the Federal Government to foster economic development for the State.

“The new administration to all intents and purposes is focused on creating an economically viable Rivers State. There has been specific pronouncement with regards to trying to encourage a bit more with regards to seaport, liaising with federal government to ensure an improved economy.”

“Of course, you know that the seaport is exclusively on the federal government list. But, from what the incoming governor has said, there would be a lot of collaboration between the state and Federal Government to ensure a more economically viable state.”

Semenitari, who is the Alternate Chairman, Media and Publicity Sub-Committee of the Siminalayi Fubara/Ngozi Odu inauguration, said areas of focus for the incoming administration have been highlighted in the manifesto of the governor-elect.

“There would also be a focus on infrastructure development that would encourage small businesses. And, there is going to be a focus on agriculture as a means to encourage small businesses.”

“In his manifesto, he (Fubara) has spoken about opening up free land, so that there would be a land tenure that will be possible for people to turn their lands into wealth.”

“So, we can be sure of a sound financial management in the next administration. And from his manifesto, the public sector is likely to see a lot of revamping.”

Experts have indicated over the years that with the right leadership, economic stimulants, favourable legal framework and deliberate plans to harness her vast human and natural resources, Rivers State, which is regarded as the economic hub of Nigeria’s South, has the potential of exponential economic growth in the next couple of years.

Expectations are therefore high that Fubara being a financial expert, who has served in various financial management roles across the spectrum of the Rivers State government would pursue economic policies that would revamp the State’s economy.