Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has called on the state's youth to remain hopeful, responsible, and actively engaged in building a greater Rivers, as the oil-rich state celebrates its 59th anniversary.
In a goodwill message issued on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, Governor Fubara reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to sustaining peace, unity, security, and inclusive development across all sections of the state. The governor's anniversary message was conveyed in an official statement released by his Chief Publicity Secretary, Onwuka Nzeshi.
Governor Fubara urged the youth to channel their vibrant energy into innovation, hard work, and patriotism, emphasizing the importance of maintaining hope even in the face of current challenges. He called on all residents of Rivers State to use the 59th anniversary as a moment of deep reflection and renewed commitment to peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, dialogue, and collective progress. He added that the unity and long-term future of the state must always rise above individual or partisan political interests.
Reflecting on the state's historical journey, the governor noted that despite the various challenges faced over the decades, the people of Rivers State have consistently demonstrated resilience, strength, and an enduring spirit of unity that has sustained the state since its creation. Fubara highlighted the strong bond of brotherhood existing among the state’s diverse ethnic nationalities, specifically mentioning the Ijaw, Ikwerre, Ogoni, Etche, Ekpeye, Andoni, and Kalabari, among others. He described this cultural diversity and unity as one of the state’s greatest assets and the ultimate foundation for lasting peace and progress.
The governor also emphasized the state’s pivotal role in driving the Nigerian economy for decades. He credited this economic significance not only to the state's abundant oil and gas resources but also to the exceptional contributions of its people in academia, law, business, entertainment, public service, and sports.
Looking ahead, Governor Fubara assured residents that his administration would sustain people-centered policies specifically aimed at protecting lives and property, while ensuring that equitable development reaches every single Local Government Area. He concluded his address by paying tribute to the state’s elders and founding leaders for their foundational roles in preserving unity and fostering peaceful coexistence across Rivers State.
