Newly restored Rivers state governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has assured citizens of peace, unity, and accelerated development following the lifting of the six-month emergency rule imposed on the state by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on March 18, 2025.

In a statewide broadcast on Friday, Fubara described the past six months as “enormously challenging” but said the political crisis that led to the emergency had now been resolved through dialogue brokered by the President.

“Our leader, His Excellency Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, and I, as your Governor, have all accepted to bury the hatchet and embrace peace and reconciliation in the best interest of our dear Rivers State,” the governor said.

Fubara commended President Tinubu for his “fatherly disposition and decisive interventions” in restoring peace and full democratic governance to the state, pledging “utmost loyalty and eternal gratitude.”

While acknowledging fears and concerns over the peace process, the governor assured citizens that “nothing has been irretrievably lost,” stressing the need for inclusiveness and reconciliation.

He urged political leaders and stakeholders to put aside differences and work for the common good.

Looking ahead, Fubara said his administration would focus on completing ongoing projects in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and other sectors to revive the state’s economy and improve the welfare of the people. He also pledged to work harmoniously with the Rivers State House of Assembly to “recover lost grounds and accelerate the social and economic advancement” of the state.

The governor expressed appreciation to political leaders, religious and traditional rulers, civil society groups, women, youths, and citizens both at home and abroad for their resilience and support during the emergency period.

“Above all, let us draw strength from our shared identity as Rivers people. Our diversity is our greatest asset, and our unity the strongest guarantee of our future,” Fubara declared, calling on all residents to embrace peace and unity.

The governor equally expressed gratitude to God and reaffirmed his commitment to leading with humility, accountability, and dedication to the progress of Rivers state.