Fubara Thanks Rivers Residents for Their Support and Encouragement

Governor Fubara expresses gratitude to the people of Rivers State, acknowledging their encouragement and support throughout his leadership journey.

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, stated that God has demonstrated His role as the ultimate liberator for both the state and its people by securing a complete victory over the political crisis and its instigators.

Fubara delivered a speech at the Christmas Ballad, an event hosted by Dr. Peter Odili, the former Governor of Rivers State. The gathering took place on Friday night at his residence in Old GRA within Port Harcourt City, located in the Port Harcourt Local Government Area.

This information was included in a statement released by Nelson Chukwudi, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, and distributed to journalists.

The Governor mentioned that during the period of political antagonism, he gained a new perspective on leadership with God’s guidance. He further noted that, thanks to the robust support from the people of Rivers, he began viewing the crisis not as a problem but as an essential catalyst in governance.

He said, “I want to accept it not only for myself but because I grow stronger in this course every day when I see the support coming from the genuine people of Rivers.”

“It’s not just me being strong; my strength comes from each and every one of you. You offer me encouragement, handle the tasks, and make calls on my behalf. How could I not stand up for you?”

“However, we firmly believe that God Almighty is the true game changer, liberator, and fighter. With Him on our side, victory is guaranteed.”

The Governor expressed that God oversees the State’s affairs and emphasized optimism for a prosperous 2025. He assured everyone that it will surpass previous experiences in terms of success.

He assured that his administration is determined to improve the state every year with notable achievements, emphasizing that the excitement among Rivers people during Christmas celebrations signals a brighter future.

Fubara, who promised to uphold righteousness, expressed his pleasure in witnessing the genuine leaders of the state and well-intentioned people of Rivers stand firm on the right side of history despite pressures to yield to tyranny and oppression.

We must keep in mind that what we are working on today is a temporary responsibility. Eventually, our turn will end, and someone else will step in to continue the work.

“What matters is ensuring the machine continues to operate efficiently, allowing the next person to build on that momentum for progress in the state. I appreciate each of you for your support.”

Fubara prayed for God to keep filling Odili’s home with love and peace. He also assured that, although it may not always be easy for him as a human being, he would strive to avoid any actions that might bring disgrace to Rivers State.

Former Minister of Transport, Abiye Sekibo, also spoke and remarked that the gathering represented a roll call of Odili’s political family. He praised Fubara for effectively combining traits from both his own leadership style and that of Odili to successfully guide governance. This has made the people proud to have him as a worthy son of their state.

In his welcome speech, former Rivers State Governor Peter Odili mentioned that he and his family decided to host Fubara and his family for an evening filled with various songs and other activities. This gathering was a gesture of appreciation for the resilience and exceptional leadership qualities Fubara has shown.

Odili explained that it has been more than a year since October 25, 2023, when an intense yet unnecessary struggle was launched against Governor Fubara concerning the future of Rivers State.

He stated confidently that Fubara faced the challenge with determination, thwarted one man’s attempt to seize control of the state as his own personal domain, liberated the people of Rivers, stabilized governance, and restored happiness among civil servants and residents until he left office in 2007.

During her speech, Justice Mary Odili presented gifts to Fubara, his wife Lady Valerie, and their children. She expressed that God had long foreseen the need for an emancipator in Rivers State and provided Governor Fubara for this role. Praising him for fulfilling it admirably, she also committed her family’s ongoing support towards the success of his administration.

In his vote of thanks, Justice Adolphus Enebeli (retd.), the Chairman of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission, expressed gratitude to the Odilis for organizing the family reunion. He also commended the Governor and his family for their humble acceptance of the invitation and acknowledged sincere appreciation towards genuine elders and leaders from across Rivers State who participated in this celebration.