Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has called on Nigerians to support President Bola Tinubu's re-election in 2027, stating that a second term would allow the President to consolidate his "bold, daring and ambitious vision" for inclusive and sustainable national development. Fubara made this appeal while declaring open a meeting of the Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council in Port Harcourt.
Meeting of traditional rulers
The event brought together 17 chairmen of state councils of Obas and traditional rulers from the South-West, South-South and South-East regions. Governor Fubara described Tinubu as a "dedicated and highly patriotic" leader who deserves another term, assuring that the country remains in safe hands under his leadership. He cited key achievements of the administration over the past three years, expressing optimism that more would be achieved under the Renewed Hope Agenda if the President is returned to office.
Infrastructural progress
“We are all witnesses to the transformation of our battered economy and the ongoing infrastructural drive, including the coastal road project across parts of the country within a short period. Although challenges remain in some regions, we trust in the President's Renewed Hope Agenda and his commitment to safeguarding the nation, transforming the economy and ensuring equitable development,” Fubara said.
Drawing a football analogy, he added: “In football, no coach changes a winning team. Nigerians should, therefore, support Tinubu at this crucial time to sustain the current momentum.”
Call for regional unity
The governor also used the occasion to advocate for stronger regional collaboration, stressing the need for unity among Southern states. Welcoming the traditional rulers, he said their presence underscored the prevailing peace in Rivers State and the collective resolve of the South to pursue common interests. “Despite our ethnic, cultural and linguistic differences, we share a common commitment to a united Nigeria. As a region, we must work together to promote the welfare of our people and achieve faster development through collaboration with the Federal Government,” he stated.
Fubara noted that enhanced Southern solidarity would provide a practical pathway for knowledge sharing, cooperation and the attainment of shared goals in peace, security and development.
Ooni of Ife's remarks
Earlier in his welcome address, the Chairman of the meeting, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Ogunwusi, reiterated the objectives behind the formation of the Southern Traditional Rulers Council, emphasizing its role in promoting dialogue, cooperation and shared development goals across the region. The gathering highlighted the importance of traditional institutions in fostering unity and supporting national progress.
