● Tonye Okurumo

• ○ Urges Enemies of Rivers to Allow Peace Reign
• ○ As Gov Accepts Dike Oha 1 of Etche

Former President of Nigeria, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, has assured the Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, that the political challenges he faces will ultimately strengthen him, molding him into a “General in politics.” Nelson Chukwudi, Chief Press Secretary to the Rivers State Governor, revealed this in a statement on Sunday, December 1, 2024.

Meanwhile, Governor Fubara has accepted the chieftaincy title Dike Oha 1 of Etche land, conferred on him by the Supreme Council of Etche Traditional Rulers. The Governor remarked that the honor reflects the deep support he enjoys from the Etche and Ikwerre people.

Governor Fubara made these remarks at the 1st Etche Festival of Food, Art, and Culture Exhibition, held at Nihi Community in Etche Local Government Area. The event also marked the 10th anniversary of the coronation of His Royal Highness, Eze Ken O. Nwala, as the Onye Ishi Agwuru III of Ulakwo-Umuselem in Etche.

The occasion was graced by the former President, Dr. Jonathan, who was also bestowed the traditional title of Eze Udo 1 of Etche land.

In his address, Governor Fubara expressed gratitude for the recognition and pledged his administration’s continued commitment to improving the lives of Rivers people. He revealed that contracts have been awarded for the reconstruction of roads in Egwi, Afara, and Mba communities in Etche, assuring residents that these projects will soon be completed.

Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara (left); and former President, Dr Goodluck Jonathan (right); walking to inspect farm harvests during the 10th Coronation anniversary celebrations of Eze Ken Nwala and 1st Etche Festival of Food, Art and Culture Exhibition in Etche on Sunday.

“For my teeming supporters, I know you are happy I am here,” the Governor stated. “Let me wave the title, Dike Oha 1, to you. I receive this honor on behalf of my family and the good people of Rivers State with all my heart. We will not disappoint you.”

He further assured: “We will soon commission the roads in Afara, Egwi, and Mba communities. That is one among many projects to come. Your support is well appreciated, and we will do our best to uplift your lives and vindicate your decision to back us.”

Governor Fubara highlighted the importance of patience and unity in achieving collective goals, urging the people to remain law-abiding. He expressed satisfaction with the presence of both current and former local government chairmen at the event, describing it as a testament to the community’s progress.

The Governor also commended Eze Nwala for his decade-long service as a traditional ruler, urging him to continue placing God at the center of his leadership.

Acknowledging Dr. Jonathan’s presence, Governor Fubara said: “Let me thank our father, Dr. Jonathan, for gracing this occasion. Your humility and humanity are priceless gifts to us. Despite your busy schedule, you came here to celebrate with the Etche people. Your support during the challenging periods of this administration has been invaluable.”

In his remarks, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan called for collective efforts to maintain peace in Rivers State, emphasizing its critical role in national stability. He urged Governor Fubara to remain focused and resilient, stating that the challenges he faces are shaping him into a better leader.

“I know you are facing challenges,” Dr. Jonathan noted. “But remember, no one becomes a General without fighting wars. With your dedication and the support of Rivers people, you will overcome these trials.”

The former President stressed the importance of peace in Rivers State, warning that instability in the state could adversely affect the entire Niger Delta and Nigeria’s economy.

“Rivers State is the heart of the Niger Delta,” he said. “If there’s trouble here, it affects the entire region. Let us support Governor Fubara and allow him to work peacefully. Political offices have tenures; let us not destroy ourselves over them.”

Dr. Jonathan also congratulated Eze Nwala on his achievements over the past decade and praised the Etche people for their agricultural contributions, describing the community as the “food basket of Rivers State.”

“I commend the Etche people for their dedication to farming, which benefits not only Rivers but also neighboring states like Bayelsa and Imo,” he added.

Senator John Azuta Mbata, Chairman of the occasion, lauded Eze Nwala for his exemplary leadership and urged traditional rulers to collaborate with the government in maintaining law and order within their domains.

In his speech, Eze Nwala reflected on his 10-year journey on the throne, highlighting milestones such as advancements in agriculture, education, and healthcare. He expressed gratitude to the distinguished guests, noting their presence as a testament to the shared vision of progress in Etche land. GMTNewsng

● Tonye Okurumo

Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has reiterated the unmatched value of living a purposeful and exemplary life, stressing that such a life leaves a lasting and positive impact on society. He called on people to devote their time to endeavors that uplift communities, foster personal growth, and promote peace.

According to a press release issued by Nelson Chukwudi, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Governor Fubara made the remarks on Saturday, November 30, 2024, during the funeral service of the late Mrs. Erefori Basi Maeba, mother of Senator Lee Maeba, a former representative of Rivers South-East Senatorial District. The service took place at Luuwa Community in Khana Local Government Area of the State.

In his address to the family of the deceased, Governor Fubara posed reflective questions, saying, “We are here to celebrate Mama, to say farewell. But I have a question for the family, the Lee family: When Mama was alive, I hope you had a relationship with her? I hope you had friendship and respect for Mama? Because it is not just enough to celebrate her in death. When our parents are alive, we should honor them. That is the most important thing.”

Governor Fubara applauded the children of the late Mrs. Maeba for maintaining a close and loving relationship with their mother, as confirmed by Senator Lee Maeba in his tribute. He further emphasized the essence of a meaningful life, remarking, “It is not the number of years but the value added to that life that affects people positively when you are alive.”

Addressing the state’s governance, the Governor reassured Rivers people of his commitment to steady leadership and transformative policies. “The Government of Rivers State under our watch will continue to take the interest of our people very seriously. We will not play. We will not jeopardize this support, and for this mandate you have given us, we will defend it and make you proud,” he said.

Governor Fubara also acknowledged the unwavering support of Rivers people, promising to deliver good governance and quality infrastructure that would improve their lives. “Despite distractions, we remain focused. Your support is invaluable, and we will not disappoint you,” he stated.

Preaching at the service, Archbishop Oliver Ali Abah, Prelate of the Methodist Church Nigeria, referenced the biblical story of Jonah, who, despite spending three days in the belly of a fish, was deemed worthy by God for an eternal rescue mission. He urged the congregation to emulate such resilience and purpose, saying, “Like Jonah, we must work diligently to overcome life’s challenges and serve humanity.”

In his remarks, Senator Lee Maeba, the chief mourner, expressed heartfelt appreciation to Governor Fubara for his support and thanked friends and well-wishers for their solidarity and prayers. He also acknowledged God’s blessings in keeping his family united during their time of grief.

The event witnessed the presence of prominent dignitaries, including Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti; Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Victor Oko-Jumbo; former Governors Chibuike Amaechi and Sir Celestine Omehia; former Deputy Governor Engr. Tele Ikuru; and Rivers State APC Chairman, Chief Emeka Bekee. Other attendees included former National Chairman of the PDP, Prince Uche Secondus, and several current and former National Assembly members. GMTNewsng

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● Clémence Dubois

Paris, France – In a bid to position Enugu State as a beacon of development in Nigeria, Governor Peter Mbah has continued to explore strategic international partnerships that will transform the socioeconomic landscape of the state. The governor, a member of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s delegation to France, has reiterated his commitment to leveraging global opportunities to enhance development in Enugu.

Governor Mbah was part of the state visit to France, where the Nigerian delegation received a warm and vibrant reception from President Emmanuel Macron and the French government. The visit underscores the longstanding bilateral relationship between Nigeria and France, with both nations seeking to deepen their socioeconomic collaboration. For Governor Mbah, this opportunity marks a significant milestone in his efforts to attract investments that will directly benefit the people of Enugu State.

One of the key highlights of the visit is the promise of expanded collaboration in agriculture and investments. Governor Mbah emphasized that the partnership holds immense potential for Enugu, especially given the existing relationship between the state and the French Development Agency (AFD). The AFD has already made inroads in supporting developmental projects in the state, and the new bilateral discussions are expected to broaden the scope of these efforts.

French President Emmanuel Macron (R) and Gov. Peter Mbah of Enugu State in Paris

“The very warm and colourful reception we have received here in France demonstrates the strength of the relationship between our two countries. This visit is opening new doors for mutually beneficial opportunities, and Ndi Enugu will be key beneficiaries of these efforts,” Mbah stated. He further noted that the engagement with France aligns with his administration’s strategic objectives of boosting agricultural productivity and attracting foreign investments to drive economic growth.

Under Mbah’s leadership, Enugu State has been prioritizing agricultural reform, with a focus on modernizing farming practices and enhancing value-chain development. The partnership with France is expected to provide technical expertise, funding, and market access for farmers in the state. Governor Mbah believes that these efforts will not only create jobs but also ensure food security for the people of Enugu.

Beyond agriculture, the governor has also highlighted the potential for investments in infrastructure and industrial development. The state’s partnership with AFD and other French entities is likely to result in new projects that will address critical areas such as transportation, energy, and water resources. “Tomorrow is here,” Mbah often says, underscoring his administration’s forward-looking approach to governance and development.

Governor Mbah’s participation in the France state visit exemplifies his resolve to ensure that Enugu State is a key player in Nigeria’s economic transformation. By fostering global partnerships, the governor is not only advancing his vision for Enugu but also setting a benchmark for effective leadership. As new opportunities unfold, Ndi Enugu can look forward to a future defined by growth, innovation, and prosperity. GMTNewsng