By Ayomide Otitoju
Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has expressed confidence in the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging support for his re-election to sustain ongoing reforms and development initiatives.
Fubara made the remarks on Thursday while declaring open the meeting of the Southern Traditional Rulers Council in Port Harcourt, where monarchs from the 17 southern states gathered to deliberate on issues of unity, security, and economic development.
The governor noted that the current administration is making measurable progress in revitalising the economy and delivering key infrastructure, including coastal road projects, despite prevailing challenges. He emphasised the need for continuity in governance, stating that changing leadership midstream could disrupt ongoing progress.
Fubara also called on stakeholders across the southern region to work collaboratively towards shared goals, stressing that unity remains critical to achieving sustainable development. He added that the hosting of the meeting reflects the peaceful disposition of Rivers State and its capacity to accommodate major national engagements.
In his remarks, the Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, who chairs the council, said the gathering was convened to promote peace and strengthen regional cohesion. He highlighted Nigeria’s cultural diversity, noting that over 400 dialects are spoken across the southern states, and described the meeting as a reflection of unity in diversity.
According to him, the Port Harcourt session is the fourth in the series, following previous meetings in Imo State, Ogun State, and Lagos State. He added that the forum provides a platform for traditional rulers to discuss shared values and common interests.
The Ooni further stated that the council would explore ways to support the federal government in addressing security and economic challenges, noting that participation remains voluntary but essential for repositioning the region and the country.
The meeting was attended by prominent traditional rulers from the South-South, South-East, and South-West, including the co-chairman of the council, Eze Cletus Illomuanya, and the Olubadan of Ibadan, Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja.
