Gov. Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to swift response to fire outbreaks and emergencies in the state to save lives and property.

Mr Fubara made the remark during the inauguration of the Rivers State Fire Service, Borokiri Sub-Station at the Old Port Harcourt Township on Thursday.

The governor stated that fire service stations were essential components of critical services that must be provided by any government for its people as a proof of commitment to their safety.

Mr Fubara stated that the Borokiri Sub-Station would serve as a local-level fire disaster management resource centre to provide quick response to emergencies and ensure protection of lives, property, and the environment.

He said that the inauguration of the station aligned with the government statutory responsibility to the citizenry which ‘’is not anything to advertise.’’

He added that ordinarily, the government meeting up with its responsibility should not call for special attention.

Mr Fubara said that due to the turn of events in the society, every achievement was showcased for the ‘’public to know that the government is working.’’

According to him, some people will commission boreholes, some will commission all sorts of things, and they do adverts for it.

‘’But for us, we have chosen to showcase to the world the vital and most needed items of service as a government.’’

He recalled that a few days ago, he unveiled the modernised and remodelled Headquarters of the state Fire Service to signal the restoration of stable and regular response to fire disasters across the state.

“We had cases of fire outbreak, from time to time, and we have never adequately responded to them.

“I strongly believe that after this minute, whatever that would happen, provided it is within the power and jurisdiction of this station, it would be combated adequately,” he said.

Mr Fubara stated that seeing the residents overwhelmed with joy and excitement, his administration would remain resolute, and continue to work to better the lives of all residents of the state.

Also Abiye Sekibo, a former minister of transport, while inaugurating the station, said that the project reflected purposeful leadership that prioritised the wellbeing of the people.

Mr Sekibo noted the massive rehabilitation work done on the long abandoned fire station, and commended Fubara for the achievement, saying that the project is a state-of-the-art fire station.

He also said that ‘’Fubara carries the collective hope and vision of all Rivers people who are resolute and determined to continue to support him.

“The people-oriented projects achievements within your short time in office as the governor are the reason why President Bola Tinubu should also support you.

“This is the first time in 24 years, the Ijaw Nation, which is domiciled in more than eight local governments of Rivers, now has the opportunity of governing the state and enjoying massive support of the people.

“This governor, at a time when our funds are seized, made sure that there was no problem in this state, and that essential services continued; he didn’t try to create problems for the federal government.’’

Mr Sekibo stated that Rivers people would continue to support President Bola Tinubu-led government under the leadership of Mr Fubara.

According to him, the governor has convinced us that the place to be is to be with our President; so, Mr President, we stand with you.

“We stand with you because that is the right thing to do; the election delivered you as our President, and so, we stand with you.

“The election also delivered our governor, our son, and we stand with him,” Mr Sekibo said.

Mr Sekibo advised Rivers people who felt demoralised by the Supreme Court judgement, to brace up and give unalloyed support to Mr Fubara, who had assured he would obey the ruling to the latter.

In his remarks, Samuel Anya, the Rivers commissioner for special duties, said the Fire Service, Borokiri Sub-Station was abandoned for years.

He added that Mr Fubara rehabilitated the structures, provided necessary materials, equipment and fire trucks to serve the people better and guarantee their safety.

(NAN)