OWA, GOWA Commends Fubara’s Inclusive Leadership, Canvasses Development In Ogoniland

The Ogoni Welfare Association (OWA) and the Gbaaloodum Ogoni Women Association (GOWA), Lagos Chapter, have commended the Executive Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, for what they described as a deliberate and inclusive approach to governance, following the appointment of Mr. Lekue Kenneth as Commissioner for Finance, Budget, and Economic Planning.

In a joint statement issued on Sunday, the Executive Chairman of OWA, Engr. Nwinmene Migah, and the Chairlady of GOWA, Mrs. Bridget Horace-Awi, described the appointment as a strong signal of recognition for Ogoni professionals and a step toward balanced representation in the state’s leadership structure.

The groups noted that the Governor’s administration has recorded visible progress in infrastructure and social development, reinforcing public confidence and strengthening trust across communities.

While applauding the appointment, the associations urged the state government to intensify development efforts in Ogoniland, highlighting persistent gaps in basic infrastructure.

They specifically called for urgent intervention in the provision of motorable roads, portable water, and electricity.

“Several communities in Ogoniland still lack access to electricity,” the statement noted.

“There is also an urgent need to rehabilitate primary and secondary schools that are currently in poor condition.”

The associations further raised concerns about the economic pressures facing grassroots populations, particularly women.

They called on the government to implement targeted support measures for women, especially widows, to cushion the effects of inflation and declining purchasing power.

Reaffirming their position, OWA and GOWA expressed confidence in Governor Fubara’s leadership and reiterated their support for his administration, while urging sustained focus on inclusive and equitable development across all regions of the state.