Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has proclaimed the state as one of the most peaceful and secure destinations in Nigeria for tourism and business. He cited the successful hosting of a major national gathering as definitive proof.
The governor made this declaration on Saturday while addressing delegates at the All Nigeria Rotary Conference held at the Dr Obi Wali International Conference Centre in Port Harcourt.
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr Benibo Anabraba, Fubara welcomed the assembly of business leaders, policymakers, and global partners.
He noted that their decision to convene in the “Garden City” serves as a validation of his administration’s security efforts.
“We deeply appreciate your choice of the city of Port-Harcourt as your place of convergence. Your presence is a testament, and a tick of pass-mark on the Scorecard that Rivers State is indeed Peaceful and Safe,” Fubara stated.
Beyond the assurances of safety, Fubara challenged the Rotary District of Nigeria to deepen its engagement with the state by collaborating on youth development.
He urged the organisation to use its resources to mentor the state’s “energetic youths”, steering them away from social vices and toward productive, purpose-driven lives.
On the broader national stage, the governor tasked the Rotarians to act as stabilising agents in the country.
“Act as mediators, practitioners and propagators of ethnic and religious tolerance, fairness, justice and equity, peace and unity, to stem the tide of disaffection in the polity,” he stressed.
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A major highlight of the event was the conferment of the “Peace Advocate” award on Fubara by the Rotary District of Nigeria. The body cited his resilience and dedication to the sustenance of peace in the state as the basis for the honour.
However, the host District Governor for Rotary International District 9141 (2025-2026), Anthony Woghiren, thanked the attendees for their dedication to the organisation’s mission of Service Above Self.
“As we gather in Port Harcourt for this landmark conference, we are inspired anew to unite for good, deepen our impact and prepare for greater possibilities ahead”, Woghiren said.
