National Security Adviser praises Rivers leadership
The National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has formally conveyed a message of appreciation from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara.
Speaking during a high-level visit to the Government House in Port Harcourt, Ribadu stated that the President is “happy” with the Governor’s responsible and peaceful approach to governance. This endorsement comes at a significant time for the state, which has recently transitioned out of a period of political turbulence.
According to reports from Vanguard Nigeria, Ribadu described Rivers State as one of the most peaceful states in the federation under the current administration. He commended Fubara for his leadership style, which he noted has prioritized the stability of the state over partisan friction. The NSA led a powerful presidential delegation that included the Minister of Works, David Umahi, and the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal.
The visit was aimed at strengthening the relationship between the federal center and the state government. Ribadu emphasized that the federal authorities have taken note of the Governor’s commitment to maintaining order. He noted that the peaceful atmosphere in the state is essential for the successful implementation of the Renewed Hope agenda in the South-South region.
Consolidation of peace efforts in Ogoni land
A primary focus of the presidential delegation’s visit was the consolidation of ongoing peace efforts within the Ogoni ethnic nationality. Ribadu revealed that a “new chapter” is currently unfolding in Ogoniland, which will serve as a blueprint for transformation across Nigeria. He praised Governor Fubara for his effective coordination of discussions regarding the resumption of oil exploration in the area.
The NSA expressed the President’s gratitude to the people of Ogoni for their continued patience and support of the government’s initiatives. He noted that the Federal Government is determined to ensure that the ecological and economic concerns of the region are addressed transparently. This new approach aims to balance resource extraction with environmental sustainability and community welfare.
By fostering a collaborative environment, the state government has managed to bring various stakeholders to the table. Ribadu noted that the successful resumption of activities in Ogoni would significantly boost the national economy. He credited Fubara’s “responsible leadership” as the catalyst for the progress made in these delicate negotiations so far.
Federal Government infrastructure and oil exploration
The delegation also included top officials from the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), signaling a serious intent to revitalize the oil sector in Rivers State. Minister of Works, David Umahi, used the opportunity to provide updates on critical infrastructure projects, particularly the East-West Road. He assured the Governor that the sections affecting the Niger Delta would be completed to the highest standards.
Umahi highlighted that the 15-kilometer Eleme axis of the road includes five strategic flyovers, one of which is being co-funded by the Rivers State Government. This partnership between the state and federal governments is seen as a model for infrastructure development across the country. The over 200 billion Naira project is expected to be completed on schedule to ease the movement of goods and services.
The Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal, also noted that the cleanup of Ogoniland remains a priority for the Tinubu administration. He stated that the federal authorities are working closely with the state to ensure that the remediation process yields tangible results for the locals. These infrastructure and environmental efforts are designed to complement the planned resumption of oil exploration in the region.
Political realignment and future of Rivers State
The visit of the NSA and federal ministers follows Governor Fubara’s recent defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). This move has been described by political analysts at Daily Post as a strategic realignment that brings Rivers State closer to the center. Fubara has repeatedly stated that his primary goal is to secure the protection and development of his people through federal synergy.
During the visit, the Governor reaffirmed his commitment to supporting President Tinubu’s vision for Nigeria. He noted that his administration has already secured a significant percentage of grassroots support for the President ahead of the 2027 general elections. The Governor argued that a state as critical as Rivers cannot afford to be in opposition to the federal government.
The political atmosphere in Port Harcourt has notably calmed since the end of the state of emergency in September 2025. Fubara credited this stability to the President’s fatherly intervention and the resilience of the Rivers people. He promised to continue delivering dividends of democracy to every corner of the state, regardless of previous political affiliations.
Support for security agencies and regional stability
In addition to political and economic discussions, the NSA commended the Rivers State Government for its robust support of security agencies. The state recently provided a campus for the University of Environment and is currently accommodating the South-South Zonal Office of the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA). This logistical support is crucial for the effective monitoring of national assets and coastal security.
Governor Fubara pledged to increase the level of cooperation between the state’s security apparatus and federal forces. He noted that the protection of oil pipelines and other critical infrastructure is a shared responsibility that his government takes seriously. The NSA expressed satisfaction with the proactive measures being taken to prevent vandalism and illegal bunkering in the creeks.
As the meeting concluded, the Governor thanked the delegation for the visit and the encouraging words from the President. He stated that the endorsement from Aso Rock would further motivate his team to work harder for the residents of the state. For the people of Rivers, the visit signals a period of renewed cooperation and hope for a more prosperous future
