Former President Goodluck Jonathan has proclaimed Governor Siminalayi Fubara as the emerging political “General” of Rivers State, asserting that current political challenges will fortify his leadership. Addressing attendees at the 1st Etche Festival of Food, Art, and Culture Exhibition in Nihi Community, Etche Local Government Area, Jonathan emphasized that enduring political adversity is essential for leadership growth.
“Facing challenges is inevitable in leadership,” Jonathan remarked. “No one becomes a general without fighting wars. The trials you encounter now are molding you into a political general. With unwavering commitment and the evident support from Rivers people, you will prevail.”
Jonathan appealed to Rivers State residents to support Governor Fubara and maintain peace, highlighting the state’s pivotal role in national stability. “Rivers State is the heart of the Niger Delta,” he noted. “Instability here affects the entire region and our economy. We need a peaceful Rivers State to ensure national prosperity.”
In response, Governor Fubara accepted the chieftaincy title of Dike Oha 1 of Etche Land, conferred by the Supreme Council of Etche Traditional Rulers. He expressed gratitude for the honor and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to enhancing residents’ quality of life. “We’ve initiated road projects in Afara, Egwi, and Mba communities,” Fubara stated. “These will be completed promptly, and we’ll return for their commissioning.”
Fubara also pledged to uphold law and order, urging citizens to remain patient and supportive. He acknowledged Jonathan’s steadfast support during challenging times, stating, “He has stood by me through this difficult period of our administration.”
Senator John Azuta Mbata, chairman of the occasion, lauded Eze Nwala for a decade of meritorious service as monarch and called on traditional rulers to maintain law and order in their communities.
