As Rivers State marks its 58th anniversary, today, the State Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd), has called on citizens to reflect on past achievements while embracing unity and collaboration to build a more prosperous future.

The Sole Administrator gave the charge while speaking at a Special Inter-denominational Thanksgiving Service held at the Ecumenical Centre in Port Harcourt on Sunday.

This was contained in a statement by the Senior Special Adviser to Sole Administrator on Media, Hector Igbikiowubo.

Ibas emphasized that the strength of Rivers State lies not only in its diversity but in the shared identity, harmony, and common purpose of its people.

He urged political, traditional, religious, and community leaders to prioritize the collective good of the state above divisions.

“We are bonded together by a common destiny—the hope of a better tomorrow where every Rivers citizen can thrive, contribute, and belong,” he said. “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 character,” he said.

The Administrator described the thanksgiving service as more than a ceremonial event but a sacred moment for reflection, forgiveness, and reconciliation.

He expressed confidence that despite historical challenges —political uncertainties, economic difficulties, and social transformations, Rivers State would emerge stronger and more united.

“Through every season of trial, God has preserved this land and its people. I am certain that our current challenges, whatever they may be, shall pass. By His grace, Rivers State will rise stronger and more determined than ever before,” he declared.

Addressing critical developmental gaps, Ibas highlighted the need for improved infrastructure, quality education, and accessible skills acquisition programmes for youths, srressing that development must be inclusive, not a privilege reserved for a few.

“Our public institutions must be transparent, accountable, and responsive. Development must be a shared experience—fair to every community, village, and local government. This is the standard we must uphold,” he stated.

In his sermon, Chaplain of the Chapel of Everlasting Grace, Government House, Pastor Barasin Ogan, emphasized the power of thanksgiving as a divine command that unlocks blessings and acknowledges God as the source of all prosperity.

The service featured a Bible reading from Psalm 100:1-5, delivered by the Secretary to the Rivers State Government, Prof. Ibibia Lucky Worika.

As Rivers State celebrates 58 years, the government reaffirms its commitment to fostering unity, equitable growth, and sustainable development for all its citizens.

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has confirmed an explosion that erupted near the Mararaba-Nyanya Bypass yesterday afternoon, leaving one person injured.

According to a statement issued by the Command’s spokesperson, SP Josephine Adeh, the incident occurred at about 2:50 p.m, yesterday.

“Officers from the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit were immediately deployed to the scene.

“The affected area was swiftly cordoned off for clearance and forensic analysis to ensure the safety of commuters and residents,” the statement said.

The statement added that the injured male victim was rescued at the scene and is currently receiving medical treatment at a hospital.

The Command said the police have commenced a comprehensive investigation to determine the exact cause and nature of the explosion.

While urging residents to remain calm, the FCT Command emphasized that there is no cause for alarm.

It, however, called for public vigilance, encouraging the prompt reporting of any suspicious persons or objects, and provided the following emergency hotlines: 08032003913, 08028940883, and 07057337653.

Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has said that Europa League success will not “save our season”, but “could change a lot of things in our club”.
After a disappointing domestic campaign, the Old Trafford outfit visited Athletic Club in the first leg of their semi-final last night.
United are 14th in the Premier League, having managed just 39 points from 34 games, but they could still qualify for the Champions League if they win the Europa League.
“Everybody knows that it’s really important for our season,” said Amorim. “We know that nothing is going to save our season, but this can be huge.
“Winning a trophy and also to get in the Champions League, to have European games next year, could change a lot of things in our club, even in the summer.”
United produced a remarkable comeback to reach the semis when they scored two goals in the final minute of extra-time to beat Lyon 5-4 in the second leg of their last-eight tie to win 7-6 on aggregate.
Their form in Europe is in stark contrast to their Premier League struggles and Amorim, who replaced Erik ten Hag in November last year, knows “a lot of things we need to change” even if they lift the trophy.
“Europa League will not change anything in our problems, it’s going to help us to have Champions League next year, more money to spend, but the problems are still there,” added the United boss.
“We have to change the minds of our fans with consistency, good decisions, good recruitment, a good academy. This is what we need to change to take this club back to the top.
“This is more of a shortcut to go to European games. Nothing more.”
United forward Amad Diallo and centre-back Matthijs de Ligt were not ready to start against Athletic Club after returning from injury, while the Spanish side was without top scorer Oihan Sancet.