The Rivers State Executive Council, led by Governor Similanayi Fubara, has taken decisive action by cancelling a significant N134 billion contract for the reconstruction of the State Secretariat complex in Port Harcourt, the state capital. This contract, originally awarded to the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) during a period of emergency rule under Vice Admiral Ikot Ete Ibas (rtd), was among several projects reviewed during the council’s recent meeting on Thursday. As a direct consequence of the cancellation, the CCECC has been explicitly directed to promptly refund the N20 billion mobilisation fee it had previously received for the project.

In addition to the contract termination, the Council made several other crucial approvals and directives. A new six-member committee has been established and approved, with the Deputy Governor, Professor Ngozi Odu, at its helm. This committee is tasked with the important responsibility of evaluating and subsequently providing recommendations for the construction of Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres across the state. These centres are intended to provide essential support for external examinations, enhancing educational infrastructure in Rivers State.

Furthermore, the Council addressed pressing environmental concerns, specifically instructing the existing flood committee, also chaired by Deputy Governor Odu, to take immediate and effective measures to combat the persistent issue of flooding in various parts of the state. Complementing this directive, residents of Rivers State have been strongly urged to actively participate in flood prevention efforts by refraining from blocking drainage channels, a common practice that exacerbates waterlogging during the rainy season. This call to action aims to foster community involvement in maintaining effective urban drainage and mitigating flood risks.