Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, has urged residents to remain steadfast in their collective pursuit of progress, as the state celebrates its 59th anniversary.Fubara also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to peace, unity, security and inclusive development. In a goodwill message issued on Wednesday to commemorate the anniversary of the state’s creation, the governor praised the resilience and determination of Rivers people, noting that despite various challenges over the years, the state has continued to thrive because of the enduring spirit of unity among its citizens.Fubara described Rivers State as a symbol of strength and diversity, emphasizing that the longstanding bond among its various ethnic nationalities remains one of its greatest assets. He noted that communities including the Ijaw, Ikwerre, Ogoni, Etche, Ekpeye, Andoni, Kalabari and several others have continued to coexist peacefully, providing a solid foundation for stability, development and social harmony.According to the governor, the spirit of brotherhood that has united Rivers people since the state’s creation has played a significant role in sustaining peace and fostering growth across the region. He stressed that preserving this unity remains essential for achieving greater prosperity and addressing emerging challenges.Fubara also highlighted the strategic role Rivers State has played in Nigeria’s economic development over the decades. While acknowledging the state’s vast oil and gas resources, he said Rivers’ contributions to national growth extend far beyond its natural endowments.He pointed to the achievements of Rivers indigenes in fields such as academia, law, business, entertainment, public service and sports, describing them as evidence of the state’s immense human capital and enduring influence on national development.The governor assured residents that his administration would continue to pursue policies and programmes aimed at promoting peace, safeguarding lives and property, and expanding development opportunities across all parts of the state. He emphasized that governance under his administration would remain people-centred, with attention given to the needs of every local government area.“Our commitment is to ensure that development reaches all corners of Rivers State while maintaining an atmosphere of peace and security that allows individuals and businesses to thrive,” the governor stated.Fubara also paid tribute to the elders, founding leaders and past generations whose sacrifices and leadership helped shape the state’s identity and preserve its culture of coexistence. He commended them for laying the foundation upon which successive generations have continued to build.Addressing the youth, the governor urged them to remain hopeful and actively participate in the development of the state. He encouraged young people to embrace innovation, hard work and patriotism, noting that their contributions would be critical to shaping the future of Rivers State.He further acknowledged the role of women in advancing social and economic development, describing them as indispensable partners in strengthening families, communities and institutions across the state.The governor called on all Rivers people to use the anniversary celebration as an opportunity for reflection and renewed commitment to peaceful coexistence, dialogue and mutual respect. He stressed that the collective interests of the state must always take precedence over personal ambitions and political differences.According to him, sustainable development can only be achieved when citizens work together in an atmosphere of unity and understanding.Rivers State was created on May 27, 1967, following the restructuring of Nigeria by the administration of Yakubu Gowon, which established 12 states from the former four regions of the country. Rivers State emerged from the defunct Eastern Region and has since evolved into one of Nigeria’s most economically significant states, playing a central role in the nation’s oil and gas industry.As the state marks 59 years of existence, Fubara’s message underscored the need for unity, peaceful coexistence and a shared commitment to development as Rivers people look toward the future with renewed optimism.