Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has officially resumed duties following the expiration of the six-month state of emergency, with a strong message that peace must remain the bedrock of unity, stability, and development in Rivers State.
The Governor made this declaration on Sunday during a thanksgiving service at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Opobo Town, the headquarters of Opobo/Nkoro Local Government Area. It was his first public appearance since returning to office after months of political turbulence.
Speaking before congregants at the service themed “2025 Harvest of Divine Possibilities”, Governor Fubara emphasized that peace is not only essential for political stability but also for personal well-being and community growth.
“The greatest gift anyone can wish for is peace,” he said. “Peace in the home prevents sickness and worry. Peace in the community attracts development. Peace within yourself promotes good health. Truly, peace is the most important thing. I urge everyone to hold peace dear as a symbol of unity and a foundation for the progress of our dear state.”
His remarks coincided with the commemoration of the International Day of Peace, giving them broader resonance. By tying his renewed mandate to the pursuit of peace, the Governor sent a clear signal that reconciliation and stability will be central themes of his administration moving forward.
WATCH FULL VIDEO ON SYMFONI TV
Fubara’s return was deeply symbolic. Attending church with his wife, Lady Valerie Siminalayi Fubara, he said the thanksgiving was not a political event but a personal moment of gratitude to God for preserving him, his family, and the people of Rivers State through turbulent times.
“I am here together with my wife this first Sunday after the suspension of the state of emergency. We cannot thank God enough as a family. Our being here is private; we came simply to worship in our home church. When my story ends, this church will lead me to my next journey. So, it is important that I come here to say thank you quietly before the Almighty God for what He has done, what He is doing, and what He will continue to do, not just for me and my family, but for this State and Nigeria,” he declared.
The Governor also acknowledged the years of fasting and intercession offered on his behalf by his community, likening prayers to deposits in a bank that yield dividends in due season.
Governor Fubara’s resumption of duty comes after a period of political uncertainty in Rivers State, during which the state was placed under emergency rule. The measure, which lasted six months, followed months of high-stakes political crises that threatened governance and stability.
Reaffirming his dedication to service, the Governor urged Rivers people to continue praying for his administration as it charts a renewed course of leadership.
“Prayers and intercessions have been the pillar of my strength and will remain critical as we work together to fulfill the mandate given to us by the people,” he stressed.
ALSO TRENDING:
Wike Determined to Make Abuja ‘World Class City’, Flags off 1st Cable Bridge
Special prayers were offered during the service by Venerable Emmanuel Nwuju, Vicar of St. Paul’s Anglican Church, for the First Family, the state government, and the peace and prosperity of Rivers State and Nigeria.
Political observers note that Fubara’s speech marks an attempt to reposition his government as one focused on reconciliation and progress. His emphasis on peace reflects the urgent need to mend divides and foster stability, particularly as Rivers remains a major oil-producing state critical to Nigeria’s economy.
I appreciate the depth and clarity of this post.
This was so insightful. I took notes while reading!