Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has called on the church and people of the state to remain steadfast in prayers as he begins afresh the journey of governance.

Governor Fubara, who attended a thanksgiving service at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Opobo Town, Opobo/Nkoro Local Government Area, his first public outing since resumption of duties, said prayers and intercessions have been the pillar of his strength and will remain critical as he works to fulfill his mandate to the people.

The Governor, who resumed official duties on Friday following the expiration of the six-month emergency rule, thanked the people of Opobo for years of fasting and intercession on his behalf, stressing that their prayers had been answered.

The governor’s spokesman, Nelson Chukwudi, in a statement on Sunday, quoted Fubara as likened prayers to deposits in a bank, whose dividends manifest in due season.

The service, which was part of the “2025 Harvest of Divine Possibilities” thanksgiving, also doubled as a personal moment of gratitude.

The governor explained that his mission was a quiet visit to return thanks to God for His faithfulness toward his family, Rivers State, and Nigeria at large.

He further underscored the importance of peace in fostering unity and development, aligning his remarks with the commemoration of the International Day of Peace.

He said: “I am here together with my wife this first Sunday after the suspension of the state of emergency. We cannot thank God enough as a family. Our being here is private; we came simply to worship in our home church. When my story ends, this church will lead me to my next journey.

“So, it is important that I come here to say thank you quietly before the Almighty God for what He has done, what He is doing, and what He will continue to do, not just for me and my family, but for this State and Nigeria.

“The greatest gift anyone can wish for is peace. Peace in the home prevents sickness and worry. Peace in the community attracts development. Peace within yourself promotes good health. Truly, peace is the most important thing. I urge everyone to hold peace dear as a symbol of unity and a foundation for the progress of our dear state.” He said.

Governor Fubara reaffirmed his rededication to the service of Rivers people, urging continued prayers and support for his administration as it charts a renewed course of leadership.

Governor Fubara was accompanied to the church by his wife, Lady Valerie Siminalayi Fubara; Chief of Staff, Dr. Edison Ehie; and other stakeholders, including Chief Oris Onyiri, Amaopusenibo Fubara Hart, Hon. Damiete Herbert Miller, and Chief Theodore Georgewill, as well as the Chairman of Opobo/Nkoro Local Government Council, Barrister James A. James; and his Vice, Mrs. Gladys Daniel Legg-Jack. (Weekend Trust)