Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, has called on Nigerians to support President Bola Tinubu’s re-election in 2027, saying another term would allow him to consolidate what he described as a bold and ambitious vision for inclusive and sustainable national development.
Fubara made the appeal while declaring open a meeting of the Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council in Port Harcourt.
The gathering brought together 17 chairmen of state councils of Obas and traditional rulers from the South-West, South-South and South-East.
The governor described Tinubu as a dedicated and patriotic leader who deserves a second term, adding that the country remains in safe hands under his administration.
He cited what he described as key achievements of the federal government over the past three years and expressed confidence that more progress would be recorded under the Renewed Hope Agenda if the President secures another mandate.
“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 the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda and his commitment to safeguarding the nation, transforming the economy and ensuring equitable development,” he said.
Fubara added: “In football, no coach changes a winning team. Nigerians should, therefore, support 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.
He said the presence of the traditional rulers reflected prevailing peace in Rivers State and the collective resolve of the South to pursue shared 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 stronger Southern cooperation would provide a practical path for knowledge sharing, partnership and the achievement of common goals in peace, security and development.
Traditional rulers in Nigeria often play influential advisory and cultural roles, particularly in promoting peacebuilding, conflict resolution and grassroots mobilisation within their communities.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Chairman of the meeting and Ooni of Ife, Oba Ogunwusi, restated the objectives behind the formation of the Southern Traditional Rulers Council, saying it was created to promote dialogue, cooperation and shared development goals across the region.
