Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, on Thursday called on Nigerians to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election in 2027, saying it would enable him consolidate on what he described as a “bold, daring and ambitious vision” for inclusive and sustainable national development.

Fubara made the call while declaring open a meeting of the Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council in Port Harcourt.

He described Tinubu as a “dedicated and highly patriotic” leader who deserves a second term, assuring that the country remains in safe hands under his leadership.

The governor cited what he termed key achievements of the administration in the last three years, expressing optimism that more would be recorded under the Renewed Hope Agenda if the President is returned to office.

“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 Mr President’s Renewed Hope Agenda and his commitment to safeguarding the nation, transforming the economy and ensuring equitable development,” he said.

Drawing an analogy from sports, Fubara added: “In football, no coach changes a winning team. Nigerians should, therefore, support President Tinubu at this crucial time to sustain the current momentum.”

The governor also used the occasion to advocate 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 said.

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.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, the governor acknowledged the strategic role of traditional rulers as custodians of culture and key intermediaries between government and the grassroots.

He commended their contributions to peace and stability, urging them to remain vigilant and focused on advancing the cultural, economic and political interests of the region.
He further charged them to engage in productive deliberations that would strengthen unity and promote sustainable development across Southern Nigeria and the country at large.

The meeting, attended by traditional rulers from the South-South, South-East and South-West zones, is expected to deliberate on the role of traditional institutions in fostering unity, cohesion and development in the region.

Dignitaries present included the Chairman of the Council, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, the Ooni of Ife; Co-Chairman, Eze Cletus Ilomuanya; Oba Rashidi Ladoja, the Olubadan of Ibadanland; and the Chairman, Rivers State Council of Traditional Rulers, Eze Chike Worlu Wodo, among others.