Published on 04 January 2026
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has congratulated the Ogoni people on the celebration of this year’s Ogoni Day, describing the occasion as a powerful symbol of resilience, cultural identity and the historic struggle of the Ogoni nation.
Governor Fubara, in a goodwill message to mark the event, paid tribute to the pioneering role of the Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP), noting that its peaceful advocacy brought global attention to issues of environmental justice, equity and human rights in Ogoniland and across the Niger Delta region.
He said the sacrifices, courage and perseverance of the Ogoni people remain a defining chapter in Nigeria’s socio-political and democratic history, stressing that their struggle has continued to shape national and international discourse on environmental protection and social justice.
According to the Governor, Ogoni Day offers a solemn opportunity for reflection and a renewed commitment to the ideals that have sustained the Ogoni cause over the decades, despite numerous challenges.
Governor Fubara called on Ogoni leaders, elders and critical stakeholders to eschew disunity and internal divisions within MOSOP and the wider Ogoni community, emphasizing that unity of purpose is essential for advancing the collective interests and aspirations of the people.
He noted that the call for unity is particularly important at a time when the Federal Government has demonstrated renewed commitment through ongoing dialogue processes aimed at addressing long-standing grievances and unresolved injustices confronting Ogoniland.
The Governor assured that the Rivers State Government remains steadfast in its support for a united MOSOP and a united Ogoni people, reaffirming his administration’s readiness to support all genuine efforts that promote peace, dialogue, reconciliation and sustainable development in Ogoniland and across the state.
The statement was dated January 4, 2026, and signed by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and Communications, Dr Honour Sirawoo.