The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has commended Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara for reviving the Christmas Discount Market, an initiative designed to provide residents with affordable goods during the festive season. After a decade-long hiatus, the market reopened as a testament to the governor’s dedication to alleviating economic challenges and fostering a festive spirit across the state.
The market, running from December 18 to December 28 at Elekahia Stadium, Port Harcourt, offers discounted essential items like food and household goods. Vendors were allocated free spaces, enabling them to lower prices while maintaining profitability. The event also features entertainment, including musical performances, a Christmas village, and a playground for children, creating a lively atmosphere for families.
HURIWA praised the initiative as a model of citizen-focused governance that other states, particularly those in the South East, should emulate. The association highlighted the economic and security struggles in states like Imo and Anambra, noting that such programs could alleviate the challenges faced by residents. Rivers State’s proactive policies, it said, set a benchmark for economic transformation.
HURIWA also applauded Governor Fubara’s broader achievements, particularly his administration’s focus on improving Internally Generated Revenue (IGR). The state’s IGR has reportedly surged from ₦12 billion to as much as ₦28 billion during peak periods, allowing for significant investments in critical projects without accruing additional debt.
The association highlighted key infrastructure developments, including the Port Harcourt Ring Road, the Trans-Kalabari Road, and the Elele-Omoku Road. These projects, executed through reputable contractors, are expected to enhance connectivity and stimulate economic growth.
In education and healthcare, HURIWA noted improvements in secondary schools, upgrades to primary healthcare centers, and the enhancement of the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital. These strides have strengthened service delivery and accessibility for rural and urban communities alike.
The association also commended the administration’s support for small businesses, emphasizing a ₦4 billion partnership with the Bank of Industry to empower micro and small-scale enterprises. These funds, offered at single-digit interest rates with flexible repayment terms, have stimulated job creation and economic activity across the state.
Despite these accomplishments, HURIWA criticized the politically motivated attacks targeting Governor Fubara’s administration, describing them as unproductive distractions. It lauded the governor’s ability to navigate these challenges while remaining focused on delivering impactful governance.
HURIWA called on other state governors, especially in the South East, to learn from Rivers State’s economic revolution. The association urged stakeholders to adopt policies that prioritize economic relief and sustainable development, stressing the need for proactive leadership to combat multi-dimensional poverty across Nigeria.
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Reiterating its support for Governor Fubara, HURIWA encouraged him to continue his transformative initiatives, which it said have positioned Rivers State as a beacon of good governance.
