Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has restated his position as the chief executive of the state, assuring residents that he remains committed to maintaining peace and security and will not back any action capable of endangering lives or property.
The governor gave the assurance on Saturday while addressing guests as a special guest at the finals of the 2026 Port Harcourt Polo Tournament in the state capital.
Fubara stressed that safeguarding lives and property remains paramount, adding that his administration is focused on delivering on the commitments made to the people of Rivers State.
“What is important is that I am still the governor of Rivers State, and we will continue to do what we have promised the Rivers people,” he said.
The governor expressed delight over the peaceful conduct of the week-long tournament, describing the absence of any incidents as clear evidence that Rivers State remains safe for residents, visitors, and investors.
“I am happy that you had your tournament for one week, and the president of the Port Harcourt Polo Club told me there was no incident. It shows that we are working and that Rivers State is safe. That is the basic responsibility of government,” he added.
However, Fubara lamented the persistent political tensions in the state, noting that such crises have repeatedly coincided with the annual polo tournament over the last three years.
“It is really unfortunate that each time you are having your tournament, there is always one problem. In 2024, you came to me and made some promises, but that January was hell. In 2025, you didn’t bother to come to me. This 2026, which I thought would be the finest, just landed me a love letter,” he said.
Despite the challenges, the governor assured that his administration would continue to carry out its responsibilities and support individuals and groups genuinely committed to the state’s development.
He also pledged government support for the upgrade of the Port Harcourt Polo Club, regarded as one of the best natural grass polo pitches in Nigeria.
Governor Fubara urged guests and participating polo players, including foreign players, to enjoy the calm atmosphere of Port Harcourt and help counter negative perceptions about the state by sharing positive and factual narratives.
The final match was attended by dignitaries including the Argentine Ambassador to Nigeria, while teams from India and Argentina joined local players in the week-long tournament.