Nigeria @ 66: Fubara Sues For Peace, Unity In Rivers

Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has called on the people of the state to embrace peace and unity, describing them as  indispensable pillars for  the socioeconomic development of any society.

Fubara, who made the call in a goodwill message to mark Nigeria’s 66th independence anniversary, said the celebration offers an opportunity for  the   people to reflect on Nigeria’s journey since 1960 and to renew their commitment to peaceful coexistence.

The governor noted that Rivers State, as the “treasure base of the nation” and a melting pot of diverse ethnic nationalities, has always thrived when its people lived in harmony. He said no meaningful development can take place in an atmosphere of rancour, division and political hostility.

He stated while political differences are normal in a democracy, they must never be allowed to undermine the collective interest of the state, adding: “We may disagree as politicians, but we must never disagree on the peace and progress of Rivers State.”

Fubara stressed that since assumption of office, his administration has anchored its governance philosophy on peace, describing it as the most invaluable infrastructure.

The governor said the relative peace enjoyed in the State today has made it possible for his government to attract investments and execute projects across the three senatorial districts.

He therefore appealed to youths, traditional rulers, political leaders and all stakeholders to be ambassadors of peace in their communities, wards and local government areas, stressing that no one benefits when the State is in crisis.

Fubara further urged Rivers people to continue to support the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that national unity and sub-national cooperation are critical to achieving the goals of the  Renewed Hope Agenda.

Meanwhile, the chairman of  Khana local government area of Rivers State, Dr. Thomas Bariere, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to greater development, peace, security and the creation of more opportunities for residents across the local government area.

Bariere stated this in a goodwill message to the people of Khana to mark Nigeria’s 66th independence anniversary and welcome the month of October.

The chairman urged residents to use the occasion to renew their commitment to peace, unity, tolerance and responsible citizenship, stressing that the development of Khana required the collective efforts of all residents.

He said, “Independence is a reminder that the strength of a nation is not measured only by its resources, but by the character of its people, the unity of its communities and their shared commitment to building a better future.”

Bariere called on the people of Khana to reject division and embrace unity, saying peaceful coexistence remained essential to achieving meaningful development in the local government.

“As citizens and residents of Khana, let us continue to uphold the values that strengthen our society—peace, unity, security, tolerance, mutual respect and responsible citizenship,” he said.

“Let us reject division and embrace the spirit of brotherhood, knowing that the progress of Khana is a shared responsibility.”

The council chairman also pledged that the welfare and dignity of the people would remain central to his administration, while efforts would continue towards extending development to communities and creating opportunities for young people and women.

“As your Chairman, I reaffirm my unwavering commitment to a peaceful, secure and progressive Khana, where development reaches our communities, opportunities are created for our youths and women, and the welfare and dignity of our people remain at the heart of governance,” Bariere said.

He acknowledged that the journey towards achieving a more developed Khana would require sacrifice, patience and collective effort from residents.

“The journey ahead may demand sacrifice, patience and collective effort, but with unity of purpose and faith in our shared destiny, we can build a Khana that reflects the aspirations of our people and contributes meaningfully to the progress of Rivers State and Nigeria,” he said.

Bariere expressed optimism that the new month would usher in renewed hope and greater opportunities for families and communities across Khana.

He said, “May October bring renewed hope, peace, prosperity, good health and greater opportunities to every family and community across Khana.”

The chairman congratulated Nigerians on the 66th Independence Anniversary and wished residents of Khana a peaceful and prosperous October.

He also prayed for continued blessings upon Khana, Rivers State and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.