Nigeria At 64: We’ll Not Succumb To Barefaced Blackmail – Fubara Vows
…Lauds President Tinubu’s economic reforms
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has declared that his administration will not surrender to barefaced blackmail but, would commit to consolidating on the gains made in ensuring peace, advancing good governance, delivering more critical projects, and sustaining the increase in the Internally Generation Revenue (IGR) of the State.
This was as he commended President Bola Tinubu, for his bold, dynamic and pragmatic economic reforms targetted at correcting the structural deformities of the past, and ushering Nigeria into a new vista of sustainable economic growth and prosperity.
Governor Fubara, who stated these on Tuesday during the 64th Nigerian Independence Day Anniversary Parade at the Government House Arcade in Port Harcourt, said 1st October in 1960 was historic with the first Prime Minister of Nigeria, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa raising Nigeria’s much cherished green-white-green flag to signify the independence and freedom gained from the British colonial rule.
He noted that there have been heroic sacrifices by founding fathers, other leaders, brave men and women, who had made numerous achievements in sustaining freedom and promoting the unity and progress of Nigeria.
According to him; “The vision of our founding fathers at independence was to build a united and secure nation anchored on the values of brotherhood, democracy, justice, and the equality of all peoples, tribes and nations.
“Our leaders, past and present, have kept on doing their best to keep the country together and advance the progress and well-being of the citizens,” he said.
He however, noted that in spite of the sacrifices, Nigeria still totters amid diverse challenges, including widespread human insecurity, after 64 years of self-rule.
Fubara pointed to the prevailing economic hardship that has made life more difficult for most Nigerians, adding that despite the economic hardship and social ills bedevilling the nation and stifling its progress, we still have good reasons to celebrate and be grateful to God as a nation and people.
He said; “We are known all over the world as hardworking, confident and happy people. We are known for our enormous natural and human resources and economic potential. We are also known for our rich cultural diversity – a vibrant nation where different religions, languages and traditions co-exist peacefully”.
The Governor said; “With an unyielding commitment to democracy, the rule of law, and good governance, and working together for the common interest, we can overcome all our challenges, and prevail over the enemies of progress”.
In the words of Fubara; “I assure you that we will never surrender to barefaced lies and blackmail from anyone, no matter how powerful he may be, but remain focused and re-dedicated to the interest of the nation, our dear Rivers State and the cause of our people”.
Fubara said that it is only through the collective efforts of Nigerians that Nigeria can become the greatest black nation and reckoned as the global leader in human civilization so desired.
“On our part, we assure the Federal Government and Mr President of unalloyed loyalty and support from the Government and good people of Rivers State, and reaffirm our commitment to the unity and progress of Nigeria as one indivisible nation.
“We will continue to support and work with the Federal Government and the security agencies to advance the security and well-being of all citizens, protect national economic assets and guarantee the security and smooth operations of local, national, and multinational companies and investments in our State.”
Fubara assured that his administration will work assiduously to ensure the safety and security of lives and property while guaranteeing equal social and economic opportunities for all residents of Rivers State.
