Suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, marked his second year in office with a heartfelt address to the people of the state, expressing gratitude for their unwavering support and reaffirming his commitment to peace, reconciliation, and inclusive governance.
In a statement to mark the anniversary of his May 29, 2023, swearing-in, Fubara described the occasion as a moment for sober reflection and renewed determination.
Fubara declared that the people’s backing has given him the courage to continue pursuing unity and healing amid ongoing political turbulence.
“Your support has emboldened me to press on and not to retreat, but to work harder to foster peace, reconciliation, and forgiveness,” he said.
“These are essential to restoring normalcy and delivering transformational infrastructure, impactful programmes, and life-changing services across the State.”
Acknowledging the political challenges that have characterized his tenure, Fubara noted that while progress may have been slowed at times, his administration remained committed to its mandate.
He highlighted strides in healthcare, education, infrastructure, youth empowerment, and gender inclusion as signs of steady progress under his leadership.
“Despite the turbulence, I have remained steadfast and focused, guided by the oath I took and the solemn promise I made to always put Rivers State first,” the suspended governor said.
He assured the people that his commitment remained unshaken.
He praised the people of Rivers State for their sacrifices and roles in sustaining the vision of a united and prosperous state, promising to double down on efforts aimed at consolidating gains in peace, security, and socio-economic development.
Fubara also used the occasion to call on political stakeholders and aggrieved parties to let go of past grievances and join hands in building a stronger and more unified state.
“To those still carrying the weight of our recent political struggles, I appeal to you—let us turn the page, come together, and focus on our shared goal of progress and unity. The time to rebuild and rise is now,” he urged.
The governor concluded with a hopeful message for the future, pledging that all decisions to be taken by his administration will continue to be in the best interest of the people and the lasting development of Rivers State.
READ FULL STATEMENT BELOW
OUR JOURNEY: CHALLENGING BUT PROGRESSIVE AND IMPACTFUL!
My dear good people of Rivers State,
Today marks exactly two years since I took the oath of office as your 7th democratically-elected Governor. On May 29, 2023, I was sworn in following the clear and overwhelming mandate you gave me during the March 18, 2023 elections. Once again, I thank you for the trust, honour, and privilege to lead our beloved State.
In the past two years, our political landscape has undergone significant changes. Despite the turbulence, I have remained steadfast and focused, guided by the oath I took and the solemn promise I made to always put Rivers State first. I pledged to protect and promote our collective interests and ensure you enjoy the real dividends of democracy and good governance. That commitment remains unshaken.
While we have faced daunting political challenges that have, at times, slowed our pace, these two years have not been without meaningful progress. I am proud of the visible milestones we have achieved, modest but significant strides in healthcare, education, infrastructure, youth empowerment, human capital development, and the inclusion of women in governance.
These achievements would not have been possible without your unwavering support and hope in the brighter future we all envision for Rivers State. For your sacrifices, contributions, and the roles you’ve played in your respective capacities, I say a heartfelt thank you.
As we look ahead, I reaffirm my pledge to consolidate on our gains and remain fully committed to the key priorities of this administration: peace, security, community welfare, and the socio-economic advancement of our State. Though our momentum may have been affected by political circumstances, our focus remains clear, and we are determined to emerge stronger, more united, and more result-oriented.
Your support has emboldened me to press on and not to retreat, but to work harder to foster peace, reconciliation, and forgiveness. These are essential to restoring normalcy and delivering transformational infrastructure, impactful programmes, and life-changing services across the State.
We are at a crucial point in our journey, where difficult decisions must be made. Be assured that every step we take will be guided by your best interests and the enduring good of Rivers State.
As we reflect on the lessons of the past two years, I am hopeful for what lies ahead. I look forward to working hand in hand with all of you to build a State we can all be proud of: a RIVERS STATE that stands as a model for the rest of Nigeria.
To those still carrying the weight of our recent political struggles, I appeal to you, let us turn the page, come together, and focus on our shared goal of progress and unity. The time to rebuild and rise is now.
Thank you once again for the opportunity to serve.
God bless Rivers State.
Signed
His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, GSSRS
Governor Rivers State
Thursday, May 29, 2025
