The Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has stated that the newly modernised fire-fighting units, equipped with new buildings, machinery, materials, and equipment, will significantly strengthen emergency response capabilities in the state.
Governor Fubara noted that the improved fire service would drastically reduce, if not eliminate, the vulnerability of residents to fire disasters by ensuring prompt intervention, minimising damage, and fostering sustainable development.
Speaking on Tuesday at the inauguration of the Rivers State Fire Service Headquarters Station, located by Isaac Boro Park Flyover in Port Harcourt City Local Government Area, Fubara said the project aligns with his administration’s vision of providing quality service to the people of Rivers State.
He recalled that in the past, the state was heavily reliant on multinational companies with functional fire trucks for emergency response, which often resulted in delays and devastating losses.
“We lost the Mile One Market because we couldn’t respond adequately. We lost the Fruit Garden Market for the same reason. How many houses and lives have we lost in this state due to inadequate fire service?” the Governor lamented.
Fubara reiterated that governance must focus on delivering essential services, protecting lives and property, and improving the standard of living. He maintained that his administration remains committed to fulfilling these responsibilities.
“What we are doing today is to show the people of Rivers State and the world that there is governance here—purpose-driven governance that focuses on impactful projects that improve lives,” he said.
He cited a recent incident where a fuel tanker accident along the Woji-Elelenwo Road could have led to casualties, but the Rivers State Fire Service responded swiftly, preventing loss of life.
“In the past, such incidents would have resulted in fatalities, but this time, it was our fire service—not the multinationals—that handled the situation. What else are we talking about?” the Governor remarked.
Fubara asserted that despite efforts by some individuals to discredit his administration, Rivers people appreciate the steady execution of infrastructural projects that address critical challenges in the state.
“We are not concerned about those working against us. Our focus is on Rivers State and its people. This fire service facility is not just a painted building—it has every essential requirement for an efficient fire-fighting operation,” he said.
The Governor also emphasised that it is insufficient to have a fire service without operational capacity, as was previously the case.
“Imagine a situation where firefighters are merely collecting salaries without the ability to perform their duties. Today, they are happy because they now have a serious responsibility—to protect lives and property in Rivers State,” he added.
Fubara commended the Commissioner for Special Duties, Dr Sam Anya, for ensuring the successful completion of the project, as well as the contractor for delivering on schedule. He assured residents that his administration would continue prioritising the safety and well-being of Rivers people while upholding the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
He also urged officials in charge of the firefighting equipment to maintain them properly to ensure their longevity and effectiveness.
Providing an overview of the project, the Commissioner for Special Duties, Dr Samuel Anya, stated that this was the first time since the 1960s that the Rivers State Fire Service had undergone such a major remodelling and upgrade.
In his remarks, Mr Clifford Paul, Head of Local Government Administration, Port Harcourt City Local Government Area, described the transformation of the previously dilapidated fire service station into a modern facility as a remarkable achievement.
“This upgrade will significantly enhance the capacity of our personnel and reinforce their preparedness to respond effectively to fire emergencies,” he said.
