Siminalayi Fubara Biography
Siminalayi Fubara, Nigerian economist and politician, is the 17th Governor of Rivers State, having been sworn in on May 29, 2023. He emerged victorious in the 2023 gubernatorial elections as the candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). Prior to his gubernatorial position, Fubara held various key roles within the Rivers State Government, including serving as the Accountant-General of Rivers State from 2020 to 2022. He has a strong background in finance and public administration and is committed to promoting economic development, infrastructure, and good governance in Rivers State.
Born on January 28, 1975, in Opobo Town, Rivers State, Fubara comes from a family with a legacy of public service. He is married to Lady Valerie Ibiere Fubara, a philanthropist known for her advocacy work against child labor. Fubara’s leadership and vision for the future of Rivers State have made him a prominent figure in Nigerian politics.
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Early Life
Siminalayi Fubara was born on January 28, 1975, in Opobo Town, in the Opobo/Nkoro Local Government Area of Rivers State, Nigeria. He is from the Ibani-Ijaw ethnic group and was raised in a family that values public service. His father, the late Joseph Fubara, was a soldier, while his mother, the late Love Fubara, was a civil servant.
Fubara was the second of five children and the first son in his family. Growing up in Opobo, he developed a strong sense of responsibility, driven by his family’s emphasis on education and community service.
Education
Sim Fubara’s educational background reflects his dedication to intellectual growth and leadership:
• Primary Education: Opobo Primary School
• Secondary Education: Comprehensive Secondary School, Opobo
• Tertiary Education:
• B.Sc. in Accountancy – Rivers State University of Science and Technology
• MBA – University of Port Harcourt (2013)
• M.Sc. in Finance – University of Port Harcourt (2016)
His pursuit of advanced education has provided him with the necessary expertise to handle complex financial and administrative matters, which later contributed to his success in public service.
Family
Sim Fubara is married to Lady Valerie Ibiere Fubara, who is an advocate against child labor and is known for her charitable work. Together, they have three sons, and Fubara’s family is regarded as close-knit, with a focus on giving back to society. His father, Joseph Fubara, and mother, Love Fubara, laid the foundation for his ethical values and commitment to public service.
Early Career
Before venturing into politics, Fubara built a successful career in public finance and administration. He began his professional journey as the Principal Accountant at the Rivers State Senior Secondary Schools Board in 2003. His competence and dedication led to a series of promotions, and by 2015, he was appointed the Director of Finance and Accounts at the Government House in Port Harcourt.
In March 2020, he was appointed Permanent Secretary, a position that solidified his leadership role within the Rivers State Government. By December 2020, Fubara was appointed as the Accountant-General of Rivers State, a position he held until May 2022.
Political Career
Sim Fubara’s political journey reached a significant milestone in 2022 when he won the PDP gubernatorial primary for Rivers State. In the 2023 gubernatorial election, he emerged victorious, winning the election and becoming the 17th Governor of Rivers State on May 29, 2023.
As Governor, Fubara has prioritized infrastructure development, including signing a ₦195.3 billion contract with Julius Berger for the Port Harcourt Ring Road project, aimed at decongesting the city and connecting six local government areas.
Source of Wealth
Fubara’s wealth stems from his distinguished career in public service, particularly his roles within the Rivers State Government. His tenure as the Accountant-General of Rivers State, along with his various financial and administrative responsibilities, provided a strong foundation for his wealth. He is also involved in private business ventures and holds several investments that contribute to his financial standing.
Controversies
In May 2022, Fubara was declared wanted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for his alleged involvement in a ₦435 billion fraud, including charges of money laundering and abuse of office. However, this matter remains under investigation.
Suspension & State of Emergency
On March 18, 2025, President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, suspending Governor Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and the entire House of Assembly for six months due to political instability. Vice Admiral Ibok Ekwe Ibas (Rtd) was appointed as the Sole Administrator.
Conclusion
Siminalayi Fubara is a dedicated public servant whose background in finance and administration has shaped his approach to governance. As Governor of Rivers State, he is focused on improving infrastructure, economic growth, and the welfare of the people. Despite facing controversies, his leadership and vision for the state have made a significant impact on the political landscape.
📱 Social Media
• Twitter/X: @SimFubaraKSC
• Facebook: Sir Siminalayi Fubara
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