Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has called on residents to embrace peace and unity, saying both are important for the development of the state.
Fubara made the call in a goodwill message to mark Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.
He said the anniversary was an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the country’s journey since independence in 1960 and renew their commitment to peaceful coexistence.
The governor described Rivers State as the ‘treasure base of the nation’ and a home to people from different ethnic groups. He said the state could only achieve meaningful development when its people lived together peacefully.
According to him, political differences are normal in a democracy but should not be allowed to affect the interests of the state.
‘We may disagree as politicians, but we must never disagree on the peace and progress of Rivers State,’ Fubara said.
He said his administration had made peace a major part of its governance since assuming office, describing it as the most valuable infrastructure.
Fubara also said the relative peace in the state had helped his government attract investments and carry out development projects across the three senatorial districts.
He urged youths, traditional rulers, political leaders and other stakeholders to promote peace in their communities, wards and local government areas.
The governor said no one would benefit if Rivers State returned to crisis and urged residents to support the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
He added that national unity and cooperation between the Federal Government and states were important to achieving the goals of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Meanwhile, the Chairman of Khana Local Government Area, Thomas Bariere, also called on residents to promote peace, unity, tolerance and responsible citizenship.
Bariere, in his Independence Day message, said the development of Khana required the collective efforts of all residents.
He urged the people to reject division and work together for the progress of the local government.
The chairman also reaffirmed his commitment to improving security, creating opportunities for youths and women, and ensuring that the welfare of residents remained a priority.
He said the journey towards a more developed Khana would require patience, sacrifice and cooperation from residents.
Bariere expressed hope that the new month would bring peace, prosperity and greater opportunities to families and communities across Khana.
He congratulated Nigerians on the 66th Independence Anniversary and prayed for continued peace and progress in Khana, Rivers State and Nigeria.