A political development in Rivers State has the APC declaring an electoral advantage after Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Port Harcourt joined the party, and Minister of Aviation Festus Keyamo (SAN) framed it as a significant “catch.” Speaking in Rivers during the inauguration of the Igwuruta-Airport Road and the new bypass connected to the airport and tollgate, Keyamo welcomed Fubara into the APC fold and celebrated the governor as proof that the party is expanding its reach in the South-South.
Keyamo described the governor’s defection as the moment the APC “caught an elephant,” explaining that the party had laid a trap for a modest member but landed a major figure instead. He attended the event to witness the presentation of the APC membership card to Fubara, noting the party’s description as a large, growing family and Africa’s largest party. He credited President Bola Tinubu’s leadership with making the APC increasingly appealing in the South-South region.
The minister also reflected on the gains for Rivers State, noting the region’s improved alignment with the central government since 2015 and praising Tinubu’s reforms as drawing more people to the ruling party. He highlighted the practical impact of the new roads: they address long-standing infrastructure challenges by giving Port Harcourt, a historic international gateway, a better approach into the city and a more welcoming first impression for visitors.
Addressing local concerns, Keyamo apologized for any perceived neglect by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and the Aviation Ministry, stressing that ongoing protests had prompted quick responses from the governor and the authorities. He recalled a tense protest last year that threatened airport access and observed how Governor Fubara’s direct engagement helped defuse the situation and deliver community support measures, including healthcare and electricity improvements.
Looking ahead, Keyamo predicted that the completed road would unlock a new corridor to the airport and stimulate broader commercial activity and development in the surrounding areas. He pledged continued collaboration with local stakeholders to support the community and ensure that federal projects receive appropriate attention in Rivers State.
Governor Fubara, while acknowledging the welcome, announced that he now proudly identifies as the APC’s 001 member in the state. He conveyed a clear message: with strengthened party support, the 2027 presidential election in Rivers State should proceed smoothly. He urged continued unity and vowed not to engage in activities that could bring negative attention to Rivers State, while inviting supporters to stay engaged and constructive.
On the road projects themselves, Fubara recalled a year-long community protest that blocked airport access and described the ensuing resolutions as a turning point. He explained that the new bypass would route traffic away from the airport, enabling development along the corridor without disrupting airport operations. The 7.1-kilometer segment being inaugurated is part of a larger 19.3-kilometer axis designed to improve access for Ipo and Igwuruta communities.
The governor emphasized that the completed bypass would bring significant benefits: easier commutes, enhanced business opportunities, and a stronger image of Rivers State’s entrances. He expressed gratitude to the community, the Minister of Aviation, and the airport authority for their support and stressed that federal and state responsibilities should be tackled in tandem to resolve ongoing challenges.
Fubara affirmed a timetable of eight months for delivering the project, with a toll planned for the old road once the new bypass is operational. He suggested that if travelers have no business at the airport, they should use the bypass to access the town and its surrounding areas, reserving the old route for airport-specific traffic.
