Ogona Anita
The Monthly Congress of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ),Rivers State Council, held on Thursday, 29th January, 2026 at the Ernest Ikoli Press Centre, Port Harcourt ,.deliberated on issues affecting the Union and the profession as well as the prevailing political, security, educational, environmental, and socio-economic situation in Rivers State and reached the following resolutions:
Congress congratulated , the Executive Governor of Rivers State, His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, GSSRS on the auspicious occasion of his 51st birthday celebration,
the Council, extends warm felicitations and best wishes to him and prayed this milestone birthday usher in a new era of prosperity, good health, and continued service to the great people of Rivers State.
Unnecessary Political Tension
Congress expresses deep concern over the lingering rift between the Executive arm of government, led by His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, GSSRS, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly.
Congress notes that the continued impasse poses serious threats to governance stability, socio-economic development, the future and wellbeing of Rivers people.
The Union calls on all parties to place the interest of the state above personal or sectional considerations and to embrace dialogue, restraint, and constitutionalism.
Commendation on Developmental Efforts
Congress commends Governor Siminalayi Fubara for notable achievements recorded by his administration despite prevailing political challenges. These include ongoing road construction and resurfacing of roads across the state, approval for the employment of five thousand (5,000) teachers, renovation of the State Secretariat Complex, and the payment of Christmas bonuses to workers. These efforts reflects commitment to infrastructure development, human capital advancement, and workers’ welfare.
Education and Public School Infrastructure
Congress emphasized that education remains the foundation for sustainable development and insists that schools must be preserved as safe and conducive centres of learning. While applauding the recruitment of teachers, Congress calls for the total overhauling of all government-owned secondary schools, many of which are presently in deplorable condition and constitute a sorry sight, particularly such schools as Government Secondary School Omerelu in Ikwerre Local Government Area, Community secondary School, Rumuokwurusi, Government Schools in Etche, and Government secondary school Luawii are of very particular concerns.
Need for Perimeter Fencing of Schools
Congress calls on the state government to prioritize the construction of perimeter fences around primary and other public schools, particularly technical and vocational institutions such as the Government Craft Centre, to prevent encroachment by neighbouring communities and to safeguard government property, students, and staff.
Press Freedom and Safety of Journalists
Congress unequivocally condemns the rising cases of harassment, intimidation, and attacks on journalists by security operatives, including the Police and other agencies. Journalists are not parties to political disputes but professionals constitutionally mandated to inform the public. Congress demands an immediate end to all forms of aggression against media practitioners and urges security agencies to respect press freedom and the rule of law.
Flooding and Environmental Emergency
In view of the recurring and devastating flooding affecting many parts of Rivers State, particularly the mile 1-3 axis of Port Harcourt City, Congress calls for the declaration of a state of emergency on flooding. Proactive measures, including improved drainage systems, environmental sanitation, public sensitization, and coordinated disaster response mechanisms, are urgently required.
Resurgence of Insecurity
Congress expresses serious concern over the resurgence of insecurity in parts of the state, particularly around strategic locations such as the Mile 1 Flyover, Ada George, Aba road and adjoining areas. Security agencies are urged to intensify intelligence-driven operations, ensure visible policing, and collaborate with community stakeholders to restore safety and public confidence.
Call for Responsible Governance
Congress reiterates that Rivers State deserves peace, stability, and purposeful leadership. All political actors are urged to conduct themselves with maturity, restraint, and a sense of history, recognizing that governance is a sacred trust held on behalf of the people.
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Rivers State Council, reaffirms its commitment to professionalism, the defense of press freedom, and the promotion of good governance, peace, and development in Rivers State.
Signed:
- Chairman; Communique` Drafting Committee, King Onunwor Esq-
- Secretary; Prudence O. Wokoma
- Member; Martins Giadom
Ijeoma Tubosia Ph.D
Secretary, NUJ Rivers State Council
