Published 16 Feb.

Governor’s People-First Approach Drives Development in Rivers State

Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has been named New Telegraph’s Man of the Year 2025 for his focus on people-centred programmes and projects, delivering good governance and social infrastructure development across the state.

Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, received the esteemed Man of the Year Award at the 2025 New Telegraph Awards, held at Lagos’ Oriental Hotel, Lekki on Friday, 13 Feb 2026. The event attracted top politicians, business bigwigs, diplomats, and media personalities.

Governor Fubara’s Man of the Year win was hailed by organisers as a testament to his courageous and purposeful leadership amidst political challenges. His administration has focused on people-centric governance, driving infrastructure development, timely salary payments, healthcare upgrades, education support, and strategic investments to boost Rivers State’s economy.

Governor Fubara was lauded for driving major infrastructure projects in Rivers State, including the 50.15km Port Harcourt Ring Road and the N30.4bn Buguma-Abalama-Tema-Degema-Abonnema road project, boosting rural connectivity and economic growth.

Some notable rural road projects delivered by his admin include:
– Trans-Kalabari Road (12.5km): 75% done, expected 2026

– Ogbakiri Road (9.7km): Done 3 months early

– Ngo-Atlantic-Oyorokoto Road (13.52km): Expected March 2026

– Kalaibiama-Epellema Road (5.2km): Includes a 450m bridge

– Emohua-Tema Road (15.24km dual carriageway)

– Ahoada-Omoku Road Extension (25.4km dual carriageway).

These projects reflect Fubara’s vision for strategic infrastructure investments, promoting mobility, social cohesion, and economic growth.

Fubara’s calm and mature leadership has earned him national recognition, navigating complex politics with a measured, peace-driven approach. By prioritizing stability and institutional governance, he’s built confidence among investors and citizens in Rivers State’s future.

Governor Fubara thanked New Telegraph in his speech and dedicated the award to Rivers people. He stressed leadership means service and sacrifice, and that peace and unity drive sustainable development.

“This award is for the people of Rivers State, who believe in our progress vision,” he said, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to inclusive growth and lasting prosperity.

 

The 2025 New Telegraph Awards celebrated outstanding leadership and public service. For Governor Fubara, the award recognises his administration’s focus on progress, stability, and Rivers people’s welfare, beyond personal achievement.

Top leaders feted at New Telegraph Awards:
– Biodun Oyebanji (Ekiti) wins Governor of the Year for Infrastructure

– Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta) bags Governor of the Year Award

– Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso gets Life Achievement Award

– Dauda Lawal recognised for Zamfara governance reforms.