Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has called on residents of the state to embrace peace, unity, and religious tolerance, stressing that sustainable development and shared prosperity can only be achieved in a united Rivers State.
The governor made the appeal in his 2025 Yuletide message to the people of Rivers State on December 25, describing Christmas as a sacred season that reflects God’s boundless love and His gift of peace to humanity through the birth of Jesus Christ.
Fubara said the life and teachings of Christ remain a timeless model of love, humility, sacrifice, and compassion, values he noted are urgently needed to strengthen social cohesion, especially amid prevailing socio-economic challenges.
“I warmly join you in celebrating the birth of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. On this sacred day, we honour the Prince of Peace, whose life remains the eternal model of love, humility, sacrifice and compassion,” the governor said.
He urged residents, irrespective of religious or ethnic background, to uphold tolerance and recommit themselves to peaceful coexistence, emphasizing that unity and mutual respect are fundamental to stability and progress in the state.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to governance and development, Fubara said the Rivers First Agenda remains anchored on peace, inclusiveness, and unity, noting that only a stable environment can support infrastructure development, economic growth, and long-term prosperity.
“Our collective progress is anchored on unity and harmony. Only in a united and stable Rivers State can we build infrastructure, strengthen the economy, and secure the prosperous future every citizen deserves,” he stated.
The governor further appealed to residents to resolve disagreements through dialogue rather than conflict, urging them to choose understanding over division in the interest of peace and development.
Fubara also called on residents to remain security-conscious during the festive period, noting that safeguarding lives and property is a shared responsibility that requires vigilance, cooperation, and mutual support.
As Rivers people celebrate the Yuletide season, the governor prayed that homes across the state would be filled with joy and love that transcends ethnic and religious boundaries, while expressing optimism for a smooth transition into 2026 filled with purpose, progress, and breakthroughs.
