The Rivers State Government has announced plans to commence the comprehensive renovation and refurbishment of the State Secretariat Complex in Port Harcourt.
Governor Siminalayi Fubara made this known on Tuesday during an on-the-spot assessment visit to the secretariat following a fire incident that occurred on Monday evening.
Fubara, who was received by jubilant civil servants, the Head of Service, and newly sworn-in Permanent Secretary Mr. Austin Ezekiel-Hart, said his administration had already been considering the renovation before the fire outbreak.
He expressed gratitude that no life was lost and noted that the damage was limited to a small section of the complex.
“It’s really unfortunate, but we give God all the glory that no life was lost and the damage was only in one section,” the governor said.
Fubara described the incident as a wake-up call to expedite plans for the renovation, assuring that his government would immediately initiate the process.
The governor also commended the prompt response of the State Fire Service, noting that earlier investments made by his administration in fire stations were crucial in containing the situation.
“I wonder what would have happened if we didn’t have a formidable and functional fire service,” he stated.
He further appreciated the resilience and dedication of civil servants, reiterating his commitment to improving their welfare and advancing the well-being of Rivers people.
“We’ll continue to do those things that will uplift Rivers people and make them happy,” Fubara added.
