The Rivers Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd), has stated that the strength of the state lies in its diversity, unity, shared identity, and common purpose.
Ibas made the remark during a Special Inter-denominational Thanksgiving Service at the Ecumenical Centre organised by the state government to mark the Rivers’ 58th anniversary in Port Harcourt, on Sunday.
He urged the citizens of the state to reflect on the past achievements and collaborate to build a more prosperous future.
He urged political, traditional, religious and community leaders to prioritise the collective good of the state, stressing that development must be inclusive and fair to every community.
Ibas highlighted the need for improved infrastructure, quality education, and accessible skills acquisition programmes for youths in the state.
He also emphasized the importance of transparency, accountability, and responsive public institutions.
He, however, described the thanksgiving service as a sacred moment for reflection, forgiveness, and reconciliation.
’’ Let us not only celebrate our past but also commit to shaping a future where our children are confident in their identity, faithful to their heritage, innovative in enterprise and God-fearing in characters.
“As Rivers State celebrates its 58 years, we reaffirm commitment to fostering unity, equitable growth, and sustainable development for all citizens in the state and Nigeria,’’ he said.
Ibas expressed confidence that the state would emerge stronger and more determined than ever before despite its challenges.
The Chaplain of the Chapel of Everlasting Grace, Barasin Ogan, described ‘’the power of thanksgiving as a divine command that unlocks blessings and acknowledges God as the source of all prosperity.’’
Ogan based his sermon on a Bible text from Psalm 100, verses 1-5, which was read by Prof. Ibibia Worika, the Secretary to the Rivers State Government.
He urged Rivers citizens to embrace peace and unity for the growth of the state.
Rivers was created in 1967 by a military leader, Yakubu Gowon and Alfred Diete-Spiff served as its first military governor from 1967 to 1975.
