The Obio/Akpor Local Government Area in Rivers State has taken a major step towards economic transformation with the launch of a new strategic framework. Dubbed "OBALGA ARISE: Building a Sustainable Economy for Obio-Akpor LGA," the initiative was unveiled at the 2025 Economic and Investment Summit in Port Harcourt on Wednesday, December 4.
Pillars of the ARISE Agenda
Council Chairman, Dr. Gift Worlu, detailed the comprehensive plan designed to overhaul public service and spur growth. The framework focuses on improving administrative efficiency through digital innovations like online levy payments and permit processing. It also introduces stricter conduct standards for council staff to enhance service delivery.
Dr. Worlu emphasized a commitment to simplifying business procedures, cutting red tape, and ensuring transparency in fees and approvals. This, he stated, is crucial to changing the perception of Obio/Akpor and attracting much-needed investment to the area.
Infrastructure and Security Partnerships
A key component of the plan involves partnerships with the Rivers State government to deliver tangible projects. These collaborations aim to:
- Expand internet connectivity across the LGA.
- Build new markets and upgrade existing schools and health centres.
- Improve street lighting and general infrastructure.
On security, Dr. Worlu outlined a multi-pronged approach. The council is working with the Police, DSS, and Civil Defence, while also empowering local vigilante groups with better tools and installing surveillance cameras. He stressed that creating jobs and skills for youth is central to tackling the root causes of crime, drug abuse, and land grabbing.
"We are giving our young men and women skills and jobs so that crime stops looking like the only option," Worlu said. He added that his administration is focused on uniting communities and promoting non-violent conflict resolution.
Investor Endorsement and Digital Launch
The summit featured a keynote address by Igo Weli, General Manager for External Relations and Sustainable Development at Renaissance Africa Energy Company Limited. Weli endorsed the ARISE agenda, calling on investors to partner with the council. He described it as a clear pathway for creating generational wealth and expressed hope for visible developmental fruits in the coming years.
The event culminated in the official launch of the Obio-Akpor LGA digital revenue platform, a cornerstone of the framework's push for a modernized, transparent revenue collection system.
Dr. Worlu described the summit as a definitive turning point, marking the beginning of a concerted push to build a sustainable and prosperous local economy for all residents.
