Addressing the audience during the 115 and 116 combined Quarterly General Meeting of Rivers State Council of Traditional Rulers in Port Harcourt on Thursday, December 7, Governor Fubara expressed his dedication to lead with humility, sincerity of purpose, and accountability.

In the face of challenging times, the governor reminded everyone that Rivers State is a collective inheritance, currently entrusted to him for protection, defense, and advancement. He pledged, “I assure you that I will not fail in this responsibility nor will I surrender our mandate and progress to intimidation, blackmail, and deliberate sabotage. I reaffirm my earlier statement and recommit myself to the path of peace as there is nothing to gain in a state of needless crisis.”

Governor Fubara outlined his vision for the state, outlining drastic measures to bolster education, healthcare, and social services, extending the reach to rural areas. He revealed that the 2024 state budget would prioritize universal access to affordable and quality education and healthcare services, with a commitment to fostering entrepreneurship among unemployed youths through skills development, entrepreneurship training, and targeted investments in commercial agriculture.

Turning his attention to traditional rulers, Governor Fubara called on them to embody integrity and uphold their roles as impartial leaders. He urged them to bravely speak truth to power, emphasizing the importance of maintaining moral authority and legitimacy in the eyes of their people.

Expressing concern for the plight of youths, particularly those in rural communities, Governor Fubara acknowledged their vulnerability to poverty and neglect in government development plans. He stressed, “As we all know, no human society can progress without peace and security. I will, therefore, urge you to continue to work tirelessly for the preservation of peace and security to attract sustainable development to your communities.”