Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, on the occasion of the nation’s Independence Day celebration, said the nation has reasons to celebrate despite the economic hardship, while commending President Bola Tinubu’s reforms thus far.
Governor Fubara reflected on the historic event of October 1, 1960, when Nigeria gained independence from British colonial rule, with the first Prime Minister, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, hoisting the national flag.
“The vision of our founding fathers at independence was to build a united and secure nation anchored on the values of brotherhood, democracy, justice, and the equality of all peoples, tribes and nations,” Fubara said.
He acknowledged the efforts of past and present leaders in maintaining national unity but noted that Nigeria still faces numerous challenges, including human insecurity, after 64 years of self-rule.
“Despite the economic hardship and social ills bedevilling our nation and stifling its progress, we still have good reasons to celebrate and be grateful to God as a nation and people,” Fubara stated.
He highlighted Nigeria’s positive attributes, “We are known all over the world as hardworking, confident and happy people. We are known for our enormous natural and human resources and economic potential. We are also known for our rich cultural diversity – a vibrant nation where different religions, languages and traditions co-exist peacefully.”
Fubara emphasized the need for collective action, “Let us also commit ourselves to work hand in hand with the Federal Government to tackle the economic, social, and political challenges, including judicial terrorism, nepotism, corruption, and abuse of power, that have diminished our democracy, stifled our economic growth, and caused untold hardship to our people.”
The Governor commended President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms, “I commend Mr. President for being bold and determined to drive his economic reforms, which are targeted at correcting the structural deformities of the past.”
Fubara urged fellow governors to intensify efforts against insecurity and economic sabotage, “I urge my fellow governors to redouble their efforts to fight the scourge of insecurity and banditry in the North, and pipeline vandalism and oil theft in the Niger Delta region of the country, for the ongoing economic reforms to bear the needed positive results.”
He reassured the Federal Government of Rivers State’s support, “On our part, we assure the Federal Government and Mr. President of unalloyed loyalty and support from the Government and good people of Rivers State, and reaffirm our commitment to the unity and progress of Nigeria as one indivisible nation.”
Fubara pledged to prioritize security, social justice, and economic opportunities, “We will continue to support and work with the Federal Government and the security agencies to advance the security and well-being of all citizens, protect national economic assets and guarantee the security and smooth operations of local, national, and multinational companies and investments in our State.”
He concluded, “We will work assiduously to ensure the safety and security of lives and property while guaranteeing equal social and economic opportunities for all residents of Rivers State.”