Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has called on residents of the state to embrace peace, tolerance and unity as the surest pathway to collective progress and sustainable development.
In his Christmas message to the people of Rivers State on December 25, 2025, the governor described the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ as a powerful reminder of love, humility, sacrifice and compassion, values he said must guide interpersonal and communal relations, particularly in challenging times.
Fubara urged citizens, irrespective of religious affiliation, to uphold religious tolerance and renew their commitment to being one another’s keepers, stressing that harmony remains the foundation for growth and prosperity.
“Christmas stands as a profound expression of God’s boundless love and His gift of peace to humanity. I urge us all to reflect deeply on these enduring values and allow them to guide our conduct towards one another,” the governor said.
Reaffirming his administration’s development blueprint, the governor said his Rivers First agenda is firmly anchored on peace, inclusiveness and unity, noting that meaningful development can only thrive in a stable and harmonious environment.
“Our collective progress is anchored on unity and harmony. I remain steadfast in my commitment to the Rivers First agenda, driven by peace and dedicated to inclusive development,” he stated, adding that unity is critical to infrastructure development, economic growth and securing a prosperous future for all residents.
Fubara also appealed for calm, dialogue and understanding, urging residents to reject discord and division.
He emphasised that security is a shared responsibility and called on citizens to remain vigilant, cooperative and supportive of one another in safeguarding the state.
“Let us replace discord with dialogue and choose understanding over division. Safeguarding our state is a shared responsibility that begins with vigilance, cooperation, mutual respect and support,” he said.
The governor wished Rivers people a peaceful Christmas celebration and expressed optimism for the coming year, praying that 2026 would usher in renewed purpose, progress and breakthroughs across the state.
“As you celebrate this season, may your homes be filled with joy and your hearts overflow with love that transcends ethnic and religious boundaries,” Fubara said.
