Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has reiterated his administration’s commitment to peace, unity, security, and inclusive development as the state turns 59.
He made the expression in a goodwill message on Wednesday in Port Harcourt to commemorate the anniversary of the state’s creation.
It would be recalled that Rivers State was created on May 27, 1967 by the administration of General Yakubu Gowon (Retd.).
The governor expressed his administration’s resolve to implement policies and programmes that would promote peace, security, and expand development across the state.
He said that despite the challenges faced over the years, Rivers people had continued to demonstrate resilience, strength, and an enduring spirit of unity.
He said that the bond of brotherhood among the ethnic nationalities in the state had remained a great source of strength and foundation for peace, stability and progress.
“We have continued to live together peacefully in the interest of the state,” he said.
Fubara further stated that Rivers State had remained a major driver of Nigeria’s economy for decades, adding: “This is not only because of oil and gas resources, but the contributions of our people across different sectors.”
He stated that Rivers’ people were visible in academia, jurisprudence, business, entertainment, public service, sports among others.
He said governance should remain people-centred and impactful, with equal attention to every local government area.
He thanked the founding leaders of the state for preserving the spirit of unity, peace and coexistence over the years.
The governor urged youths to remain hopeful, responsible and committed to building a greater state through innovation, hard work and patriotism.
“I acknowledge the role of women in strengthening families, communities and society. You are indeed indispensable partners in the continued growth and stability of our dear state,” he said.
Fubara urged Rivers people to take advantage of the anniversary to reflect and renew their commitment to peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, dialogue and collective progress.
