PORT HARCOURT: Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has announced that his administration has begun the payment of ₦85,000 as the new minimum wage for state workers, despite efforts by “enemies of the state” to deprive his government of funds.
Speaking at the launch of the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Emblem Appeal Fund at the Government House in Port Harcourt on Thursday, Governor Fubara said the new wage policy has brought relief to civil servants in the state.
He said that the ability to enhance workers’ welfare is one of the greatest achievements of governance, noting that those previously earning between ₦70,000 and ₦80,000 are now receiving between ₦120,000 and ₦140,000 under the new wage structure.
Fubara reaffirmed his commitment to leading the state with the guidance of God, adding, “Only God gives power.”
The governor also commended the cooperation of security agencies, despite external pressures, and urged them to continue maintaining peace.
In support of the Nigerian Legion, Fubara announced a ₦40 million donation, doubling last year’s contribution of ₦20 million. He also expressed a personal connection to the event, being the son of a military officer, and honored the sacrifices made by fallen heroes and their families.
However, Fubara addressed concerns raised by the acting chairman of the Nigerian Legion in the state regarding the lack of opportunity to access the 50 employment slots promised to children of fallen soldiers. He clarified that civil service employment had been temporarily suspended to focus on hiring professionals such as teachers and doctors.
The governor revealed that over 2,000 doctors have already been employed, with plans underway to hire 1,000 teachers for primary and secondary schools. He also stated that scholarships are being provided for students in professional fields, with 150 indigenes currently sponsored at PAMO University of Medical Sciences and others at Wigwe University.
Governor Fubara asked for patience from legionnaires, assuring them that the state would soon begin processing scholarship applications.
Before his address, Fubara called for a minute of silence to honor the late Chief of Army Staff, Taoreed Lagbaja, and the former chairman of the Nigerian Legion in Rivers State, Charles Hart.
