As 2025 dawned, Governor Sir Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State made an impassioned declaration during a New Year service that resonated with the hopes and prayers of the people: “God will crush the enemies of Rivers State.” The bold proclamation came as he celebrated the arrival of the New Year with citizens at the St. Paul’s Anglican Church in Opobo Town, in the early hours of January 1, 2025.
In a moment of spiritual fervor, Governor Fubara, joined by prominent political figures and religious leaders, called upon divine intervention to ensure that the state would triumph over those plotting its downfall. “The Red Biro is still filled. It is still here with me. Every plan of the enemy will continue to crash,” he said, reinforcing his confidence in God’s supremacy and the state’s resilience.
The Governor’s words were part of a larger service that marked the transition into 2025, a year that promises progress and unity for Rivers State. His declaration was not just a political statement but also a spiritual vow to continue fighting for the state’s peace and prosperity, no matter the challenges ahead. Fubara’s prayer was not just for Rivers State’s growth but for peace, stability, and God’s guidance through turbulent times.
The service, held at the St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Opobo, attracted a wide range of dignitaries, including Rt. Hon. Victor Oko-Jumbo, Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Chief of Staff Dr. Edison Ehie, and several members of the National Assembly, including Hon. Awaji-Inombek Abiante, Hon. Boma Goodhead, and Hon. Anderson Igbiks. King Dandeson Douglas Jaja, the Amanyanabo of Opobo Kingdom, was also present, alongside other political leaders and stakeholders.
The congregation sang hymns of praise, with the Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Niger Delta, Dr. Emmanuel Oko-Jaja, leading the service. He reflected on the year 2024, acknowledging the challenges faced by the people of Rivers State—ranging from political conspiracies to economic hardships—and commended the resilience of the state’s citizens. He urged everyone to remain hopeful and trust that 2025 would bring a turn of fortune. “In the New Year, God will uphold and deliver us,” said Oko-Jaja. “We shall continue to live victoriously.”
Governor Fubara’s statement about God’s intervention was not just a declaration of faith but a reflection of the ongoing political dynamics within Rivers State. The governor has faced numerous political adversaries throughout his tenure, with some critics accusing him of fostering division within the state’s leadership. Despite these tensions, Fubara remains resolute, drawing strength from his spiritual beliefs and his conviction that divine providence will guide his administration toward success.
Fubara’s faith-based appeal is particularly significant in the context of the state’s complex political landscape. Over the past year, Rivers State has grappled with political battles, economic challenges, and security issues. The governor has often spoken about the need for unity and collective effort in overcoming these hurdles. This latest declaration comes amid ongoing political discourse about his leadership style, with some detractors questioning his approach, while others continue to rally behind him as the state’s steadfast leader.
In his address, Fubara emphasized that 2025 would be a year of growth and progress, anchored in the 2025 State Budget of Inclusive Growth and Development. “Our target is to ensure that every citizen of Rivers State experiences the fruits of our hard work and commitment,” he said. “We will continue to work toward ensuring prosperity for all, regardless of their background.”
The Governor’s reference to “The Red Biro” was particularly notable, as it symbolized his commitment to tackling the state’s challenges head-on. The “Red Biro” has become a metaphor for decisiveness and accountability in leadership, representing a tool that Fubara uses to enact policies and decisions that benefit the state. His statement about the biro’s continued presence was a direct response to those who have sought to undermine his authority and vision for Rivers State.
Despite the challenges that 2024 brought to the state, Fubara remained optimistic. “In this New Year, we will see the fulfillment of our efforts,” he said. “Rivers will continue to thrive under God’s protection and guidance.” His words were met with resounding applause from the congregation, reflecting the collective hope of the people that the coming year would bring better prospects.
The Governor’s confidence was further bolstered by the prayers offered during the service. Bishop Oko-Jaja prayed for peace, unity, and accelerated development for Rivers State. The bishop’s words reflected the growing desire for stability within the state, particularly as the government focuses on delivering key projects aimed at improving the economy and living standards of its people.
Fubara’s message was not solely about political victories but also about unity. The service served as a reminder to Rivers citizens that no challenge, no matter how daunting, could overwhelm them if they remained united in faith and purpose. The leaders who attended the service—representatives from different political backgrounds and affiliations—stood together in their shared commitment to the state’s progress.
This unity was further underscored by the prayers for the peace and progress of Rivers State, with calls for the people to work together to ensure a prosperous future. The Governor’s message of hope and resilience was clear: while political enemies may seek to destabilize the state, the collective strength of its people, guided by divine power, will ensure that the state prevails.
As the service concluded with shouts of “Happy New Year,” Governor Fubara’s words echoed in the hearts of the attendees: “This is a new dawn for Rivers State. Together, we shall rise.”
For the people of Rivers State, the 2025 New Year begins with renewed hope, faith in God, and a promise of progress—both spiritual and political. With Fubara’s declaration of divine intervention, it remains to be seen how the coming year will unfold for the state and its leadership. But for now, the Governor’s message is clear: in 2025, victory is assured, and the enemies of Rivers State will be defeated.