The governorship candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Rivers State, Chief Dumo Lulu-Briggs, has unveiled an economic blueprint worth between $20 billion and $200 billion for the state if elected as governor in the 2027 election. He made this announcement during a press conference in Buguma, Asari-Toru Local Government Area of the state. Lulu-Briggs emphasized that his vision is long-term, aiming to transform Rivers State's economy over 15 years.
Lulu-Briggs stated that he is running for governor to return political power to public purpose and move the state from "politics without purpose to disciplined and committed public work." He stressed that Rivers State belongs to its people, not to any godfather, faction, or private political estate. The candidate noted that prolonged political conflict has hindered the state's progress, with citizens paying the price through delayed projects and missed opportunities.
The Kalabari-born politician expressed concern that Rivers people have been consumed by fear, factionalization, and permanent quarrel. However, he emphasized that the state can disagree without enmity and compete without violence. Lulu-Briggs highlighted that Rivers State has the potential to succeed, with assets such as human capital, energy and gas, ports and waterways, industrial experience, tourism, blue economy, agriculture, and the commercial strength of Port Harcourt.
Lulu-Briggs' campaign theme, "Reset Rivers State," aims to bring about significant changes in the state. He explained that "reset" does not mean revenge but rather a new approach to politics, governance, and economic development. The six implications of his "Reset" theme include resetting politics to be peaceful, civil, and purposeful; resetting government for honesty, predictability, and competence; and resetting the economy to prioritize production, services, logistics, and exports.
The NDC guber candidate pledged to use public money judiciously, emphasizing that government should not pretend that ownership is the only path to progress. He stated that private financing and professional operators can deliver commercial projects, and inherited projects will be evaluated based on evidence, not on who initiated them. Lulu-Briggs also emphasized the importance of protecting the environment, promising credible information, faster response, and practical protection for riverine communities.
Lulu-Briggs urged Rivers people to choose purpose over capture, work over noise, and prosperity over poverty. He emphasized that his administration will prioritize the needs of all communities, ensuring that every community feels seen, heard, and respected. The candidate concluded by stating that he does not ask for a blank cheque but rather the opportunity to serve and be judged by the evidence of his administration's accomplishments.
The economic blueprint unveiled by Lulu-Briggs aims to transform Rivers State's economy from a $20 billion economy to a $200 billion economy in 15 years. He emphasized that this vision is long-term and honest about what one administration can achieve. With his "Reset Rivers State" campaign theme, Lulu-Briggs seeks to bring about a new era of peaceful, civil, and purposeful politics in the state.
Key points
- Lulu-Briggs unveils $20bn-$200bn economic blueprint for Rivers State.
- Candidate vows to end godfatherism and factional politics in Rivers State.
- Lulu-Briggs' campaign theme, "Reset Rivers State," aims to bring about significant changes in politics, governance, and economic development.
