Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, on Saturday attributed his continuation in office, following the six-month imposition of emergency rule, to the “special favour” of President Bola Tinubu.
The Governor made the candid remark during the combined 37th and 38th convocation ceremony of the Rivers State University (RSU), Nkpolu-Oroworukwu, Port Harcourt, where he also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sustained funding for the institution.
Survival in Office
Addressing challenges raised by the university’s management, Governor Fubara noted that many of the issues would not have surfaced if democratic processes had not been temporarily interrupted in the state earlier in the year.
The Governor directly credited the presidency for his return to full democratic authority:
“It is only by the special grace of God, the special favour from Mr. President, that we are standing here still as the ones presiding over the affairs of Rivers State,” he said.
The President had imposed a six-month emergency rule, suspending the Governor, his Deputy, and the State Assembly, which was lifted in September 2025, restoring Fubara to office following a reported truce.
Commitment to University Funding
Despite the political turbulence, Governor Fubara assured stakeholders that his administration would now resume its full responsibilities, pledging to address complaints raised during the convocation and bridge infrastructural gaps at RSU.
He outlined clear funding priorities focused on improving infrastructure, enhancing security, and boosting the welfare of students and staff.
“We will continue to fulfil our financial obligations to the university, ensuring improved infrastructure as well as the security and welfare of staff and students. Education remains the most vital investment for national development,” Fubara affirmed.
The Governor added that satellite campuses facing operational challenges outside Port Harcourt would receive accelerated attention in 2026.
Convocation Highlights
The event celebrated 13,242 graduates, including 10,648 first degrees and 2,594 postgraduate degrees, with 157 students earning First Class honours.
The Chancellor, HRH Dr. Sidi Mohammad, praised Governor Fubara for making RSU one of the best-funded public universities in Nigeria. Pro-Chancellor Hon. Okey Wali, SAN, commended the funding support and unveiled a five-year Strategic Development Plan (2026–2030) aimed at global recognition, improved commercial research, and enforcing a zero-tolerance policy against corruption and sexual harassment.
The Governor urged the new graduates to embrace integrity, hard work, and entrepreneurship as they enter the workforce.
Gov Fubara Meets President Tinubu, Says ”Peace In Rivers State Is Real” is relevant because it shows Governor Fubara discussing the peace agreement reached with President Tinubu, which led to the end of the emergency rule and his return to office.
