Fubara calls for peace and unity in Rivers on Independence Day

Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has called on residents to embrace peace and unity, describing them as essential to the state’s socio-economic development. Fubara made the appeal in a goodwill message marking Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary. The message, issued by his media aide Onwuka Nzeshi on Thursday, urged Nigerians to reflect on the country’s journey since 1960 and renew their commitment to peaceful coexistence.

The governor said Rivers, which he described as the nation’s “treasure base” and a home to diverse ethnic communities, had prospered when its people lived harmoniously. He said meaningful development could not take place amid rancour, division and political hostility. Fubara acknowledged that political differences were normal in a democracy but said they should not be allowed to damage the collective interest of the state.

“We may disagree as politicians, but we must never disagree on the peace and progress of Rivers State,” he said. He said his administration had made peace central to its governance philosophy, describing it as the most valuable infrastructure. According to Fubara, relative peace in Rivers had enabled the government to attract investments and execute projects across the three senatorial districts.

The governor appealed to youths, traditional rulers, political leaders and other stakeholders to act as ambassadors of peace in their communities, wards and local government areas. He said no one benefited when the state was plunged into crisis. Fubara also urged Rivers residents to continue supporting the Federal Government under President Bola Tinubu.

He said national unity and cooperation between federal and sub-national authorities were important to achieving the objectives of the Renewed Hope Agenda.