Photos: Fubara marks first church service after suspension 

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, on Sunday returned to the public stage with a thanksgiving service, urging the church and people of the state to remain steadfast in prayers as he resumes governance after months of political turbulence.

Fubara, who only returned to work last Thursday following the expiration of the six-month emergency rule, attended service at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Opobo Town, his hometown. It was his first outing since stepping back into the saddle.

With his wife Lady Valerie beside him, the governor said his presence at the church was personal and symbolic, a way of quietly thanking God for sustaining him, his family, and Rivers State through what he described as a defining phase of leadership.

“I am here this first Sunday after the suspension of the state of emergency with my wife. We came to worship quietly in our home church. When my story ends, this church will lead me to the next journey. So it is important to return thanks to 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,” Fubara said.

He thanked the people of Opobo for their unrelenting prayers and fasting, comparing their intercession to deposits in a bank whose dividends manifest in due season.

The governor also seized the moment to preach peace, tying his message to the International Day of Peace. According to him, peace remains the greatest gift anyone can desire, in homes, communities, and individual lives.

“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 foundation for unity and progress,” he added.

Fubara reaffirmed his rededication to the service of Rivers people, insisting that prayers and support will remain critical as his administration charts a fresh course.