The Rivers State Government has issued a robust reassurance to Inter-Governmental Organisations (IGOs) regarding its unwavering dedication to maintaining a peaceful and conducive environment for international partnerships, strategic investment, and holistic development.
This pledge was articulated by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr Benibo Anabraba, during the inaugural session of the RIV-CARES Phase One Performance Review Retreat, held recently in Onne, Eleme Local Government Area.
Representing the administration, Dr Anabraba emphasised that collaboration with international bodies remains a cornerstone of the State’s strategy to elevate the standard of living for its citizenry. He asserted that the State remains an oasis of stability, primed for economic engagement.
“Rivers State remains tranquil and is entirely open to bespoke partnerships and investments designed to stimulate economic growth,” the SSG remarked. “Our primary objective is to drive sustainable development while simultaneously enhancing the social welfare of our people.”
Dr Anabraba further elucidated that the fundamental duty of the Executive is to safeguard the well-being of the populace through robust legal and institutional frameworks. He noted that such frameworks are essential for the delivery of social impact programmes, particularly those tailored to support the State’s most vulnerable demographics.
A significant highlight of the SSG’s address was the conceptual expansion of the Rivers Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus (RIV-CARES) programme. While the initiative is traditionally viewed through the lens of human resilience, Dr Anabraba underscored the necessity of environmental fortitude.
He posited that the preservation of biological diversity is a critical defence against global health crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, and an essential component in the mitigation of climate change and rising sea levels. “Financial interventions alone cannot resolve these systemic threats; we must build a resilient natural environment to ensure long-term food security and health,” he observed.
The retreat also served as a rigorous auditing forum. The Acting Auditor-General of the State, Dr Yorkina Barisua, underscored the importance of transparency as the State prepares to transition into Phase Two of the RIV-CARES programme. She noted that the retreat was vital for assessing institutional weaknesses, celebrating successes, and ensuring that every expenditure adheres to the strictest principles of value-for-money.
Professor Peter Medee, Special Adviser to the Governor on Economic Matters and Social Development, echoed these sentiments in his keynote address, describing the forum as a pivotal platform for strategic reflection.
The event saw a distinguished gathering of the State’s Executive Council, including the Commissioners for Agriculture, Women Affairs, Commerce and Industry, and Chieftaincy and Community Affairs, alongside the Accountant-General and other senior fiscal advisers.
Source: Office of the Secretary to the State Government January 30, 2026
