Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has called on residents to remain calm and steadfast in faith as the state enters the New Year, urging them to disregard any “sounds of war” and instead rely on prayer as their chief instrument for peace and progress.
Delivering his 2026 New Year message shortly after a crossover service at the Government House Chapel of Everlasting Grace, Port Harcourt on Thursday, Governor Fubara acknowledged the many challenges his administration has faced over the past two years but reiterated his confidence in brighter days ahead.
Speaking to a congregation comprised of government officials, political leaders, clergy and worshippers, Fubara declared that while the last two years had been “challenging,” the state is stepping into the new year “with strength” and “with hope.”
In a message that underscored both spirituality and political reassurance, the governor made a pointed contrast between earthly conflict and spiritual resilience. He emphasised that his administration does not rely on “instruments of war”, but on deep faith.
“We do not have war equipment. The only thing we have is our knees. We will continue to pray to God. And God will never let us down.”
Fubara urged citizens to remain calm and unperturbed by unsettling reports or sounds of war, assuring them that the government remains focused on governance, stability and development rather than confrontation.
“Don’t be troubled by the sound of war that you are hearing,” he admonished, affirming that faith, not armaments, would see Rivers State through its current trials.
The governor acknowledged that some expectations of his administration had not been met but expressed confidence that 2026 holds promise for meaningful progress across the state.
He also took time to thank Rivers residents for their continued support, particularly during difficult moments, and used the occasion to reiterate his support for national leadership:
“I want to thank you for standing with us…in a peaceful and understanding manner, Tinubu will have his way in Rivers State.”
Fubara went on to express confidence that President Bola Tinubu would secure victory in the 2027 presidential election, a statement that intertwined encouragement for unity in Rivers with broader political optimism.
The crossover service was marked by prayers for peace, stability and prosperity, not just for Rivers State, but for Nigeria as a whole. Fubara’s comments reflect a deliberate appeal to faith at a time when fears, political tensions and rumours have stirred unease among some residents.
By framing prayer as Rivers people’s chief weapon against fear and division, the governor sought to centre the new year not on conflict, but on communal faith and resilience.
