Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, on Sunday resumed official duties with a call on the church and people of the state to sustain prayers and embrace peace as a catalyst for unity and development.
Governor Fubara, who returned to office following the expiration of the six-month emergency rule, attended a thanksgiving service at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Opobo Town, headquarters of Opobo/Nkoro Local Government Area. The service, part of the church’s 2025 Harvest of Divine Possibilities, was the governor’s first public outing since the suspension of the emergency rule.
Speaking at the service, Fubara said his visit was a personal act of gratitude to God for His faithfulness to his family, Rivers State, and Nigeria.
“I am here together with my wife this first Sunday after the suspension of the state of emergency. We cannot thank God enough as a family. Our being here is private; we came simply to worship in our home church. When my story ends, this church will lead me to my next journey. So, it is important that I come here to say thank you quietly before the Almighty God for what He has done, what He is doing, and what He will continue to do, not just for me and my family, but for this State and Nigeria,” he said.
The governor thanked the people of Opobo for their prayers and fasting over the years, describing intercession as “deposits in a bank” that yield dividends in due season.
He also stressed the centrality of peace to human and societal well-being, linking his message to the global commemoration of the International Day of Peace.
“The greatest gift anyone can wish for is peace. Peace in the home prevents sickness and worry. Peace in the community attracts development. Peace within yourself promotes good health. Truly, peace is the most important thing. I urge everyone to hold peace dear as a symbol of unity and a foundation for the progress of our dear state,” Fubara declared.
Reaffirming his dedication to the service of Rivers people, the governor urged continued prayers and support for his administration as it begins a renewed phase of leadership.
Special prayers were offered by the Vicar of St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Venerable Emmanuel Nwuju, for the First Family, the success of the administration, and the peace and prosperity of Rivers State and Nigeria.
Governor Fubara was accompanied by his wife, Lady Valerie Siminalayi Fubara; Chief of Staff, Dr. Edison Ehie; and other political leaders and stakeholders, including Chief Oris Onyiri, Amaopusenibo Fubara Hart, Hon. Damiete Herbert Miller, and Chief Theodore Georgewill. The Executive Chairman of Opobo/Nkoro Local Government Council, Mr. James A. James, his deputy, Mrs. Gladys Daniel Legg-Jack, and other dignitaries were also in attendance.
