Rivers women call for sustained peace, unity

• Laud Tinubu, Fubara, Wike

By Emma Njoku

A cross-section of women in Rivers State marked the 2026 Valentine’s Day with a prayer convocation, commending President Bola Tinubu, Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Chief Nyesom Wike for embracing peace and prioritising the stability of the state.

Gathered at the Isaac Boro Park, on  February 14, the women declared that the current atmosphere of cooperation among the nation and state’s top leaders was the ultimate Valentine’s gift to the people of Rivers State.

They stressed that unity remains the only indispensable vehicle for sustainable development and national progress.

The event, themed, “For the Love of State and Country” and inspired by the biblical text of Matthew 12:25, was organised by the Toby Jug Foundation, in collaboration with Rivers Women Unite for SIM.

The initiative successfully redefined the season of love as a period for spiritual intercession, civic patriotism and collective commitment to God.

Addressing the assembly, President of the Toby Jug Foundation, Amaopuorubo Sotonye Toby Fulton, noted that the state had previously suffered developmental setbacks due to political friction.

“The decision of our leaders to prioritise peace deserves our highest commendation,” Fulton remarked. “Disunity and chaos carry grave consequences for the fabric of our society.

“We challenge women to remain the backbone of moral strength and to demonstrate love for Rivers State through prayer, unity and selfless service.”

In a practical demonstration of the theme of love, Mrs. Fulton announced the commencement of the Rivers Rural Women Support Stimulus (RRWSS). The support mechanism is set to empower 5,000 women in its inaugural phase, providing grants to rural dwellers across the 23 local government areas, market women and Islamic sisters, while non-indigenes contribute to the state’s economy.

The atmosphere at Isaac Boro Park was one of hope and spiritual renewal, featuring powerful ministration by Rev Salvation Oziri of Conquerors World Glorious Ministry International.

Participants engaged in intensive prayers for the future of Nigeria and the success of the current administrations.

The gathering balanced solemnity with celebration, as children enjoyed dedicated play zones and games. The event reached a high point with a ceremonial cake-cutting to mark the Valentine season and celebrate participants born in the month of February.

By shifting the focus from romance to “Love of Country,” the Foundation and Rivers Women Unite for SIM have set a new precedent for civic engagement and spiritual advocacy in Rivers State.