Connect with us

Featured

Rivers Agog As Wike Flags Off NAFEST …Stakeholders Hail Peace In Rivers

Published

8 years ago

on

Rivers State Governor, Chief Nyesom Wike yesterday declared open the 31st National Council for Arts and Culture, NAFEST Rivers 2018, amid pomp and ceremony at the imposing Sharks Stadium, Port Harcourt.
Governor Wike dressed in beautiful Rivers traditional attire with a walking stick to match, stated that NAFEST 2018 will serve as a unifying force for the country .
With the theme: “Nigeria: Our Festivals, Our Heritage”, NAFEST Rivers 2018, attracted 18 States of the federation, Rivers State included.
The governor said culture empowers humanity by improving inter-personal relationships, noting that NAFEST is a platform for the states to make the most of the nation’s culture.
He said: ‘Whether we agree or not, our diversity is what defines and binds us as a nation under the glorious sun. Although our tribes and tongues may differ, we are a nation bound by a common destiny and firmly glued together by the spirit of brotherhood, cultural harmony, and inter-ethnic solidarity instead of discord, tribalism, nepotism and sectionalism.
” What is imperative therefore is for us to take full advantage of the innate strength in our diversity together with our incredible human and natural resource endowments to build a just, united and prosperous country for the present and future generations.”
Governor Wike added that the essence of the festival is to promote national peace, unity and cohesion.
Governor Wike said: “Over the years, NAFEST has become the veritable platform for the 36 States and the Federal Capital Territory to meet, showcase and make the most of our cultures and diversity.
”In addition to celebrating the rich cultural tapestry of our country, NAFEST also provides the opportunity for cultural activism with the use of creative images and expressions to engage or take on our leaders on the politics of nation-building, human rights, regional integration, inter-ethnic harmony, national peace and development.”
In his remarks, Director General of NAFEST, Otunba Olusegun Runsewe commended Governor Wike for for making history for the people of Rivers State.
He said: “Almighty God will repay Governor Wike for his contributions to the peace that he is promoting “.
Runsewe said that Rivers State is peaceful, that is why the state is hosting several international and national events. He said that outside Lagos and Abuja, Port Harcourt enjoys the highest air traffic and hotel patronage in the country.
Rivers State Commissioner of Culture and Tourism, Mrs Tonye Oniyide Briggs said that Rivers State is fully prepared to host the very best NAFEST since its inception.
Chairman of the events, Chief Ferdinand Alabrabra said that Rivers State is the choice of all major national events because of its strategic peaceful nature.
All the states that participated at the event displayed splendid cultures and dances as they paraded round the stadium.
The 23 Local Government Areas of the state also displayed their rich culture and tradition.
Youths spiced up the event with wonderful calisthenic displays that thrilled the thousands of spectators at NAFEST Rivers 2018
Speaking to journalists during the official opening ceremony at the Sharks Stadium, Port Harcourt, yesterday, Rivers State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Mrs Tonye Briggs-Oniyide said that NAFEST 2018 would unite the people of Nigeria.
Oniyide, who is also the chairperson, Planning Committee of NAFEST, Rivers 2018, further stressed that “as the 36 states in the country gather together today to showcase their different cultures and styles, unity, development and love will be achieved”, adding that the unity of the country would be enhanced through the display of the different cultures.
She pointed out that NAFEST stood as a symbol of peace and unity, noting that the hosting the event in the state was an indication that Rivers State was safe for investors and tourists.
Briggs-Oniyide urged investors to take full advantage of the peaceful environment in Rivers State to invest, enjoy and do their businesses without any fear of insecurity, explaining that this year’s event was the third time the state was hosting NAFEST, the highest of any state in the country.
“His Excellency, Chief Nyesom Wike, the people’s governor, who has the welfare of the people at heart has ensured peace in Rivers State since he came into office, and as you can see, Rivers State is safe. So, I want to urge all investors and those coming to Rivers State for the first time to go back with a new understanding that Rivers State is a safe haven for businesses to thrive,” she said.
Also speaking, the former Nigeria Ambassador to South Korea, Amb. Desmond Akawor noted that one major milestone of NAFEST 2018 was that “Rivers State is safe to host any national event as well as businesses”.
Akawor, therefore, urged visitors to Rivers State to invest and partner with people to advance development, noting that “Rivers culture and what our people are known for have been displayed to promote the rich heritage of the state”.
In his remarks, Permanent Secretary, Culture and Tourism, Gombe State, Reynolds Ali Kabiny noted that he was in Rivers State for the first time and was impressed by what he has witnessed, which was different from what he had heard about the state before the visit.
Kabiny stated that with what he has witnessed, Rivers State was peaceful and a great haven for investors, adding that the hosting of NAFEST 2018 by the Rivers State Government, was quite commendable.
He thanked the state Governor, Chief Nyesom Wike for finding it worthy to host the programme, saying, “I believe that at the end of the day, those that participated in the NAFEST 2018 ceremony will see the value in this country coming together as one.”
In her reaction, Ogun State representative, Tope Ogungbe, expressed joy for the opportunity to participate in NAFEST 2018 in Port Harcourt, admitting that the people of Rivers State were very friendly and peaceful.
“I really feel good about this NAFEST here in Rivers State. We know that we will see the reach cultural heritage of the Rivers people. They have been very friendly and hospitable since we came into the state. I feel very happy and excited because this will also unite the people of Nigeria,” Ogungbe added.
Ogungbe thanked the Rivers State governor for hosting a well-organised NAFEST 2018, adding that it would help facilitate the unity of the people of Nigeria.

 

Susan Serekara-Nwikhana

Related Topics:
Continue Reading

Featured

Fubara Reaffirms Commitment To Peace, Development

Published

1 week ago

on

May 29, 2026

By

Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of his administration to peace, unity, security, and inclusive development as Rivers State marked its 59th anniversary, last Wednesday.

 

In a goodwill message issued on Wednesday to commemorate the anniversary, Governor Fubara stated that despite the challenges faced over the years, the people of Rivers State have continued to demonstrate resilience, strength, and an enduring spirit of unity that has sustained the state since its creation.

 

The Governor noted that the strong bond of brotherhood among the various ethnic nationalities of the state, including the Ijaw, Ikwerre, Ogoni, Etche, Ekpeye, Andoni, Kalabari, and others, remains one of Rivers State’s greatest strengths and a critical foundation for peace, stability, and progress.

 

He further observed that Rivers State has remained a major driver of Nigeria’s economy for decades, not only because of its abundant oil and gas resources, but also because of the exceptional contributions of its people across diverse sectors including academia, jurisprudence, business, entertainment, public service, and sports.

 

Governor Fubara assured the people that his administration will continue to prioritize policies and programmes that promote peace, protect lives and property, and expand development across all parts of the state. He emphasized that governance must be people centered and impactful, with equal attention given to every Local Government Area of the state.

 

The Governor also paid tribute to the elders and founding leaders of the state for preserving the spirit of unity and coexistence over the years, while urging the youths to remain hopeful, responsible, and actively committed to building a greater Rivers State through innovation, hard work, and patriotism.

 

He equally acknowledged the invaluable role of women in strengthening families, communities, and society, describing them as indispensable partners in the continued growth and stability of the state.

 

Governor Fubara called on all Rivers people to use the occasion of the anniversary as a moment of reflection and renewed commitment to peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, dialogue, and collective progress, stressing that the unity and future of Rivers State must always rise above personal interests and political differences.

 

Rivers State was created on May 27, 1967, by General Yakubu Gowon.

Continue Reading

Editorial

Nigeria’s 27 Years of Civil Rule Journey

Published

1 week ago

on

May 29, 2026

By

Nigeria returned to civil rule on May 29, 1999, after several years of military intervention in politics. The transition marked a major turning point in the nation’s history and raised hopes for freedom, stability, economic growth and accountable leadership. Citizens expected that elected governments would strengthen institutions, improve living conditions and unite the country after years of authoritarian rule. Twenty-seven years later, civil rule has survived without interruption, making it the longest uninterrupted civilian administration since independence in 1960.
Since 1999, Nigeria has witnessed six administrations at the federal level. Olusegun Obasanjo governed from 1999 to 2007, followed by Umaru Musa Yar’Adua from 2007 until his death in 2010. Goodluck Jonathan served from 2010 to 2015, while Muhammadu Buhari led the country between 2015 and 2023. Since May 2023, Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been in office. Though democracy has remained stable, governance outcomes have produced mixed reactions among Nigerians.
The country has made some notable progress over the past 27 years. Democratic institutions such as the National Assembly, judiciary, political parties and the media have become stronger than they were during military rule. Elections are now regular, though still imperfect. Telecommunications, banking, entertainment and digital technology have expanded greatly. Nigerian youths have also become more politically aware and active. The country’s economy, despite its difficulties, remains one of the largest in Africa.
However, many of the expectations that came with democracy remain unmet. Corruption, unemployment, poverty, insecurity and poor infrastructure continue to trouble the nation. Public confidence in government institutions has weakened over time because many citizens believe political leaders have not done enough to improve their welfare. Ethnic and religious tensions also remain major challenges. While democracy has endured, good governance has not always matched the hopes of the people.
President Tinubu’s administration began with bold economic decisions aimed at reforming the nation’s finances. His government removed fuel subsidy and unified the foreign exchange system. Supporters argue that these measures were necessary to reduce waste and attract investment. The government also increased revenue allocation to states and sought to improve tax administration. Yet the immediate impact has been severe hardship for millions of Nigerians. Inflation, high transport costs and the falling value of the naira have placed enormous pressure on households and businesses.
In education, the Tinubu administration has promised reforms through student loan schemes, support for technical education and efforts to reduce strikes in tertiary institutions. Some progress has been recorded with the establishment of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund. However, public schools still face poor funding, inadequate facilities and shortage of teachers. Many students continue to struggle with rising school fees and declining quality of education.
The health sector under the current administration has also recorded both efforts and challenges. Government has pledged to improve health insurance coverage. Nevertheless, hospitals across the country still suffer from inadequate equipment, shortage of medical personnel and brain drain as doctors and nurses continue to leave Nigeria for better opportunities abroad. Access to affordable healthcare remains difficult for many rural communities.
The power sector remains one of Nigeria’s biggest disappointments after nearly three decades of democracy. Despite repeated promises and reforms, electricity supply is still unstable. Businesses and households spend heavily on generators and fuel. The Tinubu administration has introduced policies aimed at decentralising power generation and encouraging investment, but ordinary Nigerians are yet to feel significant improvement in electricity supply.
The rising cost of living has become the greatest concern for many Nigerians today. Food prices, transportation costs and rent have increased sharply. Though the Federal Government introduced palliative programmes and cash transfer initiatives to cushion the effects of reforms, many citizens believe the interventions have been inadequate or poorly distributed. There is growing demand for more effective social protection programmes targeted at vulnerable citizens.
On national security, the government continues to battle terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and communal violence. Security agencies have recorded some successes in parts of the country, yet insecurity remains widespread. Farmers in many rural communities still face attacks, affecting food production and increasing fear among citizens. Regional stability in West Africa has also become more uncertain due to political crises in neighbouring countries. Nigeria continues to play a leading diplomatic role in the region, but internal security challenges weaken its influence.
In infrastructure and other key sectors, the Tinubu administration has continued several road, rail and housing projects inherited from previous governments. Investments in ports, gas and digital technology have also been encouraged. In agriculture, government has promoted mechanised farming, dry season cultivation and access to credit. Yet food insecurity remains high because insecurity, inflation and poor rural infrastructure continue to affect agricultural productivity. Nigeria still imports many food items despite its vast agricultural potential.
To improve national conditions, the Federal Government must place greater attention on job creation, industrialisation and support for small businesses. More investment is needed in agriculture, healthcare, education and electricity. Anti-corruption institutions should be strengthened while government spending must become more transparent. Leaders must also prioritise national unity and reduce political divisions. Nigerians expect reforms that produce visible improvements in their daily lives, not only policy announcements.
In Rivers State, the 27 years of civilian rule have produced substantial development alongside political tensions. The state has remained economically important because of its oil and gas resources. Different administrations since 1999 have invested in roads, schools, healthcare facilities and urban renewal projects. However, political conflicts and struggles for power have often affected governance and slowed development in parts of the state.
Governor Siminalayi Fubara assumed office in May 2023 amid high expectations and intense political disagreements. In infrastructure, his administration has initiated projects such as massive road construction, bridge rehabilitation and urban development schemes in parts of the state. Ongoing works on major roads and public facilities have been presented as efforts to improve transportation and economic activities. Critics, however, argue that political instability in the state has distracted government’s attention from faster project delivery.
In education and health, the Rivers State Government has continued support for public schools and healthcare centres. Efforts have reportedly been made to improve learning environments and sustain payment of workers’ salaries. In health, there have been interventions in hospitals and primary healthcare services. On security, the administration has worked with security agencies to maintain peace, although political tensions in the state have created uncertainty. In the civil service, workers and pensioners have largely continued to receive salaries, stipends, and welfare support. The state government has also shown interest in agriculture and power development, though these sectors still require stronger investment and clearer long term strategies.
Going forward, Rivers State needs greater political stability to achieve meaningful development. The government should focus more on rural roads, youth employment, agricultural expansion and uninterrupted healthcare services. Investments in independent power projects and industrial development would help attract businesses and reduce unemployment. Above all, political leaders in the state must place the interest of the people above personal or factional battles. Democracy can only succeed when governance delivers peace, development, and hope to ordinary citizens.
Continue Reading

Featured

WASSCE: RSG Distributes Science Materials To Secondary Schools

Published

4 weeks ago

on

May 13, 2026

By

The Rivers State Government has distributed science equipment and materials to all senior secondary schools across the state to support students during the ongoing West African Examinations Council exams and to strengthen practical learning.

Flagging off the distribution at the Rivers State Senior Secondary Schools Board premises in Port Harcourt, on Monday, the State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Peters Nwagor, said the move demonstrates Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s commitment to improving education standards in the State.

 Nwagor said the materials were approved and provided by the state government specifically to boost the teaching and learning of science subjects, describing science education as the foundation for technological advancement, innovation, and national development.

“No society can compete globally without deliberate investment in science and technology,” the Commissioner stated.

He commended the governor for consistently prioritising the education sector by providing tools needed for effective teaching and hands-on learning.

The Commissioner directed principals to ensure that the equipment are used strictly for practical lessons in their schools, warning that any principal or administrator found diverting, hoarding, or selling the materials wil face disciplinary action under public service regulations.

 Nwagor also warned against examination malpractice,  saying any principal found aiding or encouraging malpractices will be decisively sanctioned.

“We must collectively restore the dignity and credibility of our educational system,” he said.

Also speaking, Chairman, Rivers State Senior Secondary Schools Board, Tony Egwurugwu, urged school heads to make judicious use of the materials for students’ benefit.

He thanked the State Government for providing the resources, and assured that monitoring mechanisms would be put in place to ensure the materials serve their intended purpose.

In his own remarks,  a Board Member for Technical Education, Nwisabari Bani Samuel, expressed appreciation to the governor for prioritising education and acknowledged the Commissioner’s role in advancing education development in the State.

He  said the distribution covers all senior secondary schools in the State and is intended to improve students’ performance in both internal and external science examinations.

Akujobi Amadi

Continue Reading

Trending