Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has announced the introduction of an ₦85,000 minimum wage for state workers, despite what he described as attempts by “enemies of the state” to deprive his administration of necessary funds. Fubara made the announcement at the launch of the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Emblem Appeal Fund at the Government House in Port Harcourt on Thursday.
He explained that the new wage structure, which has provided much-needed relief to civil servants, has raised salaries for workers previously earning between ₦70,000 and ₦80,000 to between ₦120,000 and ₦140,000. Fubara emphasized that improving the welfare of citizens is the greatest achievement of governance.
Reaffirming his commitment to govern with divine guidance, Fubara said, “Only God gives power.” He also expressed gratitude to the cooperation of security agencies, urging them to continue maintaining peace in the state.
In support of the Nigerian Legion, Governor Fubara announced a ₦40 million donation, doubling the previous year’s contribution. He also expressed personal empathy for the families of fallen heroes, acknowledging their sacrifices as the son of a military officer.
Addressing concerns raised by the acting chairman of the Nigerian Legion in the state about the unavailability of 50 promised employment slots for children of fallen soldiers, Fubara explained that civil service recruitment had been temporarily suspended. The state is focusing on hiring professionals, including over 2,000 doctors and plans to recruit 1,000 teachers for primary and secondary education.
Governor Fubara also revealed that the state is sponsoring students in professional fields, including 150 indigenes at PAMO University of Medical Sciences, and others at Wigwe University. He encouraged patience among the legionnaires, assuring them that scholarship applications would be processed soon.
In a moment of reflection, Fubara observed 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.
