Declaring a party to a conflict as ‘Man of the Year’ simply means pronouncing him not guilty in the conflict or crisis. That seems to be what the declaration of Gov Sim Fubara as Man of the Year 2025 by a newspaper group means.
Onwuka Nzeshi, the new chief press secretary (CPS) to Gov Fubara however said the award is a recognition of the governor’s achievements in delivery of good governance and development of social infrastructure in Rivers State.
He quoted the management of New Telegraph to show it is in recognition of Gov Fubara’s giant strides in the delivery of people centred programmes and projects across Rivers State.
The organization said Fubara has been making waves in Rivers State with his impressive development agenda.
“Since taking office in May 2023, he has focused on transforming the state’s infrastructure, education, healthcare, and economy. Like a giant, Gov Fubara has left his bold foot prints on nearly every community and every sector in Rivers State.
To the newspaper, what Fubara was facing is a distraction whereas many saw it as a big fight between a godfather and a godson. The CPS thus quoted the citation by the awarding organisation thus: “In spite of the numerous distractions from the political battlefield, Fubara has demonstrated an amazing capacity to keep his head above the storm while swimming across the troubled waters. He has shown an uncommon capacity to remain focused, resolute and steadfast on the mandate freely given to him by the good people of Rivers State, ” the citation read.
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Some of the key achievements of the Fubara administration showcased at the award ceremony were said to include: Road Infrastructure Development; His Excellency has undertaken the construction of the 50.15km Port Harcourt Ring Road project, and commenced construction of the 19.1km Buguma-Abalama-Tema-Degema-Abonnema road project worth N30.4 billion.
Beyond these major arterial highways, Gov Fubara’s administration has been actively working on various rural road projects in Rivers State. The aim is to open up the rural communities, improve connectivity and boost economic growth.
“Some notable rural road projects include the Trans-Kalabari Road Project – a 12.5km stretch connecting the state capital to several Kalabari communities, with about 75 per cent of critical piling work completed and expected to be finished in 2026.
“There is also the Ogbakiri Road Project – a 9.7km road project designed to improve connectivity between Emohua and the surrounding riverine communities. This particular project was completed three months ahead of schedule.
“Next is the Ngo-Atlantic-Oyorokoto Road- a 13.52km road project leading to Oyorokoto Beach and a new beachfront, expected to be completed by March 2026.”
Several roads were also mentioned in many other sections of the state, which indicate that the Governor was busy building roads while conflict was raging.
“These projects are part of Governor Fubara’s vision to transform Rivers State through strategic infrastructure investments, promoting mobility, social cohesion, and economic growth,” the citation read.
Fubara was cited for also making impact in Education, Healthcare, and general Economic growth in Rivers State.
Highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of the award to the governor amidst ovation from the audience which included some of his colleagues (governors), past governors, and other dignitaries.
(Source: Onwuka Nzeshi, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Rivers State)
