Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has reaffirmed the safety and investment viability of the state. Dismissing negative narratives on social media over security concerns, he declared that Rivers remains open for business, leisure, and international engagements.

The Governor spoke on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at the grand finale of the 2026 Port Harcourt International Polo Tournament, where he pointed to the successful, incident-free hosting of the week-long event as clear evidence of the prevailing peace and security in the state.

Governor Fubara noted that the absence of any security breach throughout the tournament underscores his administration’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property across Rivers State.

Explaining his presence at the event, the Governor said it was driven by a personal obligation to honour the memory of his late brother, Architect Roland Cookey-Gam, whose wife and son were in attendance, as well as a strategic encouragement from the leadership of the Port Harcourt Polo Club.

While alluding to the prevailing political atmosphere in the state, Governor Fubara acknowledged the recent distractions, stressing that such developments would not deter his government from delivering on its mandate to the people.

“Notwithstanding these distractions, we must move on. We must continue to carry out our responsibilities as a government and support everyone who genuinely means well for Rivers State,” the Governor said.

He assured stakeholders of the state government’s readiness to provide sustained support aimed at elevating the Port Harcourt Polo Club and positioning it more prominently on the global sporting and tourism map.

Governor Fubara further urged visiting players, officials, and guests to take home positive impressions of Rivers State, reiterating that the protection of lives and property remains the foremost obligation of his administration.

Earlier in his remarks, the President of the Port Harcourt Polo Club, Mr. Henry Prince Agbodjan, commended Governor Fubara for gracing the grand finale of the tournament, noting that the seamless and incident-free conduct of the event further attests to the security of Rivers State.

Agbodjan also disclosed that the tournament coincides with the 20th remembrance of Architect Roland Cookey-Gam, who tragically lost his life in a plane crash, adding that the event served both sporting and commemorative purposes.

Highlight of the event was the presentation of trophies to the individuals and teams that won at the tournament.