Sole administrator Ibok-Ete Ibas has stated that the strength of Rivers lies in its diversity, unity, shared identity, and common purpose.

Mr Ibas said this during a special interdenominational thanksgiving service at the Ecumenical Centre organised by his administration to mark the state’s 58th anniversary in Port Harcourt on Sunday.

He urged the residents to reflect on past achievements and collaborate to build a prosperous future. He urged political, traditional, religious and community leaders to prioritise the collective good of the state, stressing that development must be inclusive and fair to every community.

Ibas highlighted the need for improved infrastructure, quality education, and accessible skills acquisition programmes for youths in Rivers.

He also reiterated the importance of transparency, accountability, and responsive public institutions. He, however, described the thanksgiving service as a sacred moment for reflection, forgiveness, and reconciliation.

“Let us not only celebrate our past but also commit to shaping a future where our children are confident in their identity, faithful to their heritage, innovative in enterprise and God-fearing in characters.

“As Rivers State celebrates its 58 years, we reaffirm commitment to fostering unity, equitable growth, and sustainable development for all citizens in the state and Nigeria,’’ he said.

Despite its challenges, Mr Ibas expressed confidence that the state would emerge stronger and more determined than ever.

The chaplain of the Chapel of Everlasting Grace, Barasin Ogan, described ‘’the power of thanksgiving as a divine command that unlocks blessings and acknowledges God as the source of all prosperity’’.

Rivers was created in 1967 by a military head of state, Yakubu Gowon, and Alfred Diete-Spiff served as its first military governor from 1967 to 1975.

(NAN)