The Rivers State Executive Council has revoked the ₦134 billion contract awarded to China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation for the renovation and furnishing of the State Secretariat Complex. The contract, awarded under the previous emergency administration led by Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), was canceled during Thursday’s council meeting presided over by Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
The council also ordered the immediate refund of the ₦20 billion mobilization fee already paid to the contractor.
According to a statement by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, the council further approved the revalidation of bidding processes for four key projects, including the secretariat renovation and reinforced concrete shoreline protection works in communities across Opobo/Nkoro and Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGAs.
Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Works, Dr. Austin Ezekiel-Hart, said the revoked contracts bypassed due process. He confirmed that fresh bids will now be advertised for competent contractors to apply.
The revalidated projects include:
- 4.8km shoreline protection in Queenstown, Epellema, Oloma, and Minima (Opobo/Nkoro LGA)
- 2.5km shoreline works in Ndoni-Onukwu, Isikwu, and Aziazagi (Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA)
- Similar works in Utuechi, Obiofu, Isala, Ani-Eze, and Odugri
- Full renovation of the State Secretariat Complex
Also at the meeting, the council approved the formation of a committee to propose the establishment of Computer-Based Test (CBT) Centres and ICT labs across all three senatorial districts, aligning with the Federal Government’s 2026 computer-based exam mandate. The committee will be chaired by the Deputy Governor.
On job creation, Commissioner for Employment Generation, Dr. Chisom Gbali, said the government is developing a new framework to expand youth employment and economic empowerment.
Meanwhile, in response to recent flash floods, the council ordered immediate intervention and urged residents to avoid practices that worsen flooding, such as blocking drains and building on waterways.
Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information, Dr. Honour Sirawoo, reaffirmed the governor’s commitment to accelerating development across Rivers State, saying the administration is focused on restoring growth and stability.
