Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has apologized for the 12-year inactivity of the state-owned fire stations, assuring residents that the ongoing renovations will be completed by the first week of March 2025.
During an inspection tour of three fire stations on Monday, Fubara assessed the progress of remodeling, expansion, and reconstruction efforts at the sites, reaffirming his commitment to making the stations fully operational.
This was disclosed in a statement by the Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi.
The governor visited the fire stations located in Port Harcourt and Obio/Akpor Local Government Areas, specifically those near the Isaac Boro Park/Mile One Flyover, Borokiri in the old Port Harcourt Township, and Rumuodomaya Community.
Fubara emphasized that once operational, the three major fire stations would enhance the state’s ability to respond swiftly to fire incidents.
“For far too long, we have relied on multinational corporations like Shell, Agip, Chevron, and even (Elf) TotalEnergies at that time to respond to fire emergencies in the state,” he said.
“From our assessment today, it is evident that the contractor is working diligently to meet the deadline. I must stress again that this project must be completed and put to use by the first week of March.”
He noted that it is the government’s responsibility to provide essential public services, including fire safety, and vowed to correct years of neglect by ensuring that Rivers residents benefit from functional fire stations.
“Frankly, I can confidently say that Rivers State has not had an operational Fire Service for the past 12 years,” Fubara stated. “As a government, one of our core responsibilities is to protect lives and property. Accidents happen, and fire outbreaks can occur in our homes.
“It is our duty to ensure that we are fully prepared to respond when such incidents arise. We are committed to equipping these facilities so that the people of Rivers State no longer have to depend on multinational corporations for fire emergencies.”
Former Water Resources Commissioner, Tamunosisi Gogo-Jaja, accompanied the governor on the tour, while the Commissioner for Special Duties, Samuel, provided updates on the project.
