Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has called on Nigerians to uphold unity and peace as the nation celebrates its 65th Independence anniversary.
Speaking at a special Juma’at service held at the Rivers State Central Mosque, Port Harcourt, the governor, represented by Alhaji Abdurrazaq Diepriye, stressed that national growth and economic development would remain elusive without peace.
He urged citizens to rise above ethnic and religious differences, noting that patriotism and harmony were essential for building a prosperous nation. “Allah has brought us this far. Without peace, we cannot have progress and economic development. I call on all citizens, irrespective of creed or tribe, to remain patriotic,” he said.
Governor Fubara commended President Bola Tinubu for restoring peace in Rivers State and praised security agencies for their role in safeguarding lives and property.
In his sermon, Chief Imam of the Rivers State Central Mosque, Imam Ibrahim Yaloo, encouraged Muslim faithful to speak the truth, obey Allah, and promote peace within their communities, stressing that sincerity attracts forgiveness and divine guidance.
The Juma’at service flagged off a series of events lined up for the state’s Independence celebrations, which continue with an inter-denominational church service on Sunday, September 28, and a grand parade on Wednesday, October 1.
