N※N

Rivers State Governor Fubara Rebuilds Administration After Political Turmoil

  //politics-government.news-articles.net/content/ .. ilds-administration-after-political-turmoil.html
  Published in Politics and Government on Thursday, February 26th 2026 at 10:59 GMT by legit
      Locale: Rivers, NIGERIA

Rivers State Governor Fubara Rebuilds Administration: New Appointments Signal Shift After Tumultuous Period

Port Harcourt, Rivers State - February 26th, 2026 - Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has begun the process of rebuilding his administration with the appointment of a new Secretary to the State Government (SSG) and Chief of Staff. The moves, announced today, come roughly two weeks after the dramatic dissolution of the entire state executive council, a decision widely interpreted as a response to escalating political tensions and a power struggle with former Governor Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi.

While the names of the appointees remain undisclosed as of this report, government sources confirm the selections were made following a period of intensive deliberation and consultation with key stakeholders. This cautious approach underscores the sensitivity of the situation and the Governor's desire to establish a team perceived as neutral and capable of navigating the complex political landscape of Rivers State.

The dissolution of the executive council on February 12th, 2026, sent shockwaves through the state, raising concerns about administrative paralysis and the potential for further instability. The previous council, largely composed of Amaechi loyalists, had become a focal point of contention as Governor Fubara sought to assert his authority and implement his own vision for the state. The simmering conflict between the two leaders has been an open secret for months, with accusations of obstructionism and political maneuvering swirling within political circles.

The appointment of the SSG and Chief of Staff are considered pivotal to restoring order and momentum within the state government. The SSG will be responsible for coordinating government activities, advising the Governor on policy matters, and ensuring the smooth functioning of state bureaucracy. The Chief of Staff, on the other hand, will serve as the Governor's principal aide, managing his daily schedule, overseeing communication, and acting as a key liaison between the Governor and various government agencies.

"These appointments aren't just about filling positions; they're about sending a clear message that Governor Fubara is taking decisive action to stabilize the government and move the state forward," explained Dr. Ibiama Silas, a political science lecturer at the University of Port Harcourt. "The previous structure was clearly unsustainable, given the strained relationship between the Governor and his predecessor. This is a calculated step towards building a team that is directly accountable to the current administration."

Rivers State faces a multitude of challenges, including declining oil revenues, infrastructure deficits, and rising unemployment. The new administration is expected to address these issues head-on, with a particular focus on diversifying the state's economy and attracting foreign investment. The SSG and Chief of Staff will play a crucial role in developing and implementing strategies to tackle these challenges.

Sources suggest Governor Fubara prioritized experience and competence when selecting his new team, eschewing purely political considerations. The emphasis is reportedly on individuals with a proven track record of administrative efficiency and a commitment to public service. This pragmatic approach reflects the Governor's understanding that effective governance is essential to winning the trust of the electorate and securing his political future.

However, the road ahead is not without its obstacles. The lingering influence of Amaechi and his loyalists within the state political machinery poses a significant challenge. Observers predict attempts to undermine the new administration and create further political friction. Governor Fubara will need to demonstrate strong leadership and build a broad coalition of support to overcome these challenges and deliver on his promises to the people of Rivers State. Further cabinet appointments are expected in the coming weeks, with speculation centering around key positions in finance, infrastructure, and education. The governor's office has remained tight-lipped about the timeline for these announcements, emphasizing the need for careful consideration and due diligence.