Port Harcourt – Rivers State marked its 58th anniversary with a clarion call for unity and renewed commitment to development as State Administrator, Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, urged citizens to build on past successes while working together for a brighter future.
The celebrations reached a spiritual highpoint during a Special Inter-denominational Thanksgiving Service at the Ecumenical Centre, Port Harcourt, where government officials, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and citizens gathered to reflect on the state’s journey.
A Call to Celebrate and Rebuild
In his anniversary address, Vice Admiral Ibas struck a balance between celebrating Rivers State’s achievements and confronting its present challenges. “Our strength as a people lies not just in our diversity, but in our shared identity and common purpose,” he declared, urging leaders across political, religious, and ethnic divides to prioritize the state’s collective interest.
The Administrator painted a vision of a state where every citizen has equal opportunities to thrive. “We are bound by a common destiny—a future where our children will be proud of their heritage, innovative in their pursuits, and grounded in godly values,” he said.
From Reflection to Action
Acknowledging the state’s turbulent history—from political upheavals to economic struggles—Ibas expressed optimism about Rivers’ resilience. “God has preserved us through every storm, and these current challenges too shall pass. What we need now is unity of purpose,” he stated.
However, he did not shy away from addressing pressing issues: poor rural connectivity, inadequate educational facilities, and limited youth empowerment opportunities. “Development cannot be a privilege for a select few. Our institutions must serve everyone—every community, every local government,” he insisted, emphasizing transparency and accountability in governance.
The thanksgiving service, anchored on Psalm 100, served as both a celebration and a call to introspection. Pastor Barasin Ogan, Chaplain of the Government House Chapel, reminded the congregation that “thanksgiving is not just an event, but a lifestyle that invites God’s blessings upon our land.”
Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Ibibia Lucky Worika, who read the scripture passage, reinforced the message of gratitude and collective responsibility.
The Path Forward
As Rivers State enters its 59th year, the administration has pledged to:
Strengthen inter-community unity and reconciliation
Prioritize infrastructure development, especially rural connectivity
Expand access to quality education and vocational training
Ensure equitable distribution of development projects
The anniversary celebrations continue with community engagements and youth empowerment programs scheduled across the state’s 23 LGAs.
About Rivers State
Created on May 27, 1967, Rivers State has grown into Nigeria’s energy hub and a cultural melting pot. With abundant human and natural resources, the state continues to play a pivotal role in the nation’s economy.
