Siminalayi Fubara, Governor of Rivers State, has pledged that his administration will not succumb to blackmail from any individual or organisation, emphasising that his focus will be on delivering good governance and moving the state forward. Fubara made the statement on Tuesday during the 64th Nigerian Independence Day Anniversary Parade at the Government House Arcade in Port Harcourt, where he reaffirmed his commitment to cementing the state’s achievements in peace, governance, and economic development.
The governor thanked President Bola Tinubu for his “bold and pragmatic” economic reforms, which aim to solve the country’s fundamental difficulties and promote long-term growth and prosperity, in a statement released by his chief press secretary, Nelson Chukwudi.
“October 1st, 1960, is etched in our history, with Nigeria’s first Prime Minister, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, raising the cherished green-white-green flag, marking our independence from British colonial rule,” Fubara added, reflecting on Nigeria’s road towards independence. Since then, countless leaders and courageous men and women have given their lives to protect our unity and freedom.
He appreciated the efforts of former and present leaders in keeping the country together but noted that, after 64 years of independence, Nigeria still grapples with difficulties like insecurity and economic hardship. “We have cause for celebration despite these challenges. Our adaptability, cultural diversity, and resourcefulness are well-known around the world.
In order to create a country where no one is oppressed and everyone can live in peace and wealth, we Nigerians must continue to be thankful for what we have. Fubara stated.
He asked Nigerians to uphold the goal of the country’s founding fathers by supporting unity, peace, and justice.
Fubara advocated for collaboration amongst Nigerians and the federal government to address the country’s political and economic difficulties, such as corruption, nepotism, and insecurity.
“It is only through our collective efforts that Nigeria can achieve its true potential and become a global leader,” Fubara told the crowd.
The governor praised President Tinubu for his desire to advance economic changes and asked colleague governors to step up efforts to address insecurity, banditry, and oil theft, particularly in the Niger Delta region, so that these reforms can bear fruit.
Fubara informed the people of Rivers State that his administration is firm in its commitment to developing the state’s infrastructure, education, and healthcare sectors.
He outlined current initiatives including the Trans-Kalabari Road, the Port Harcourt Ring Road, and the renovation of hospitals, schools, and the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital.
In addition, Fubara expressed gratitude to the Police, Armed Forces, and other security organisations for their contributions to preserving security and peace in Rivers State and promised to support them going forward.
In Essence
Fubara’s reflection on Nigeria’s history, from independence to the present, positions him as a leader aware of the challenges that have plagued the country, such as insecurity and economic instability.
His call for Nigerians to uphold the founding principles of unity, peace, and justice serves as a reminder that governance and progress require collective effort, not just from political leaders but from the entire citizenry.
His praise for President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms suggests a collaborative stance with the federal government, even as Rivers State addresses its unique issues, particularly oil theft and insecurity in the Niger Delta.
Fubara’s call for fellow governors to step up efforts in addressing regional challenges is important, as regional cooperation will be crucial to ensuring that federal reforms, especially in security and economic policies, are effectively implemented.
