Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, ushered in the New Year 2025 with a resounding declaration of faith, emphasizing the omnipotence of God to vanquish perceived adversaries of the state and its people. Addressing the congregation at the crossover service held at St. Paul’s Anglican Church in Opobo Town, Fubara led the worshipers in a powerful hymn, proclaiming the sovereignty and dominion of God. The lyrics, resonating with the congregation, served not just as words of comfort, but as a rallying cry, bolstering the people’s trust in divine guidance and protection as they embarked on the journey of the New Year. Governor Fubara, known for his symbolic use of a red pen in governance, reaffirmed its continued presence, suggesting the ongoing execution of his plans and the inevitable failure of any opposition. This symbolic gesture underscored his confidence and determination to steer the state towards progress amidst potential challenges.
The crossover service, held in the early hours of Wednesday, January 1st, 2025, was presided over by the Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Niger Delta, Emmanuel Oko-Jaja. The Bishop reflected on the trials and tribulations of the past year, acknowledging the conspiracies, blackmail, attacks, economic hardships, and health concerns that had beset the community. However, he emphasized the resilience of the people, highlighting their ability to overcome these adversities through unwavering faith. Bishop Oko-Jaja proclaimed that God had bestowed a new song of victory upon those who remained grateful for His divine interventions, assuring them of continued protection and triumph in the coming year. His message resonated with the spirit of renewal and hope that characterized the New Year celebration, offering solace and encouragement to the congregation.
The service, rich in spiritual symbolism and fervent prayer, was also an occasion for the Bishop to intercede on behalf of the state. He invoked divine blessings for peace, unity, progress, and accelerated development, aligning his prayers with the key objectives outlined in the state government’s 2025 Budget of Inclusive Growth and Development. This intertwining of spiritual and governmental aspirations underscored the importance of collective effort and divine grace in achieving the state’s ambitious goals. The budget, themed around inclusive growth and development, reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring that the benefits of progress reach all segments of the population. The Bishop’s prayers served to consecrate these aims, invoking divine support for their successful realization.
The air in Opobo Town was thick with anticipation as the clock ticked closer to midnight. The congregation, united in faith and hope, engaged in fervent praise and worship, their voices blending in harmonious adoration. The choir’s ministrations added to the spiritual fervor, creating an atmosphere of profound reverence and joy. As the clock struck twelve, marking the dawn of 2025, the church erupted in joyous shouts of “Happy New Year!” The jubilant cries echoed through the town, carrying the weight of renewed hope and aspirations for a prosperous year ahead. The shared celebration served as a powerful reminder of the community’s collective spirit and their shared faith in a brighter future.
Governor Fubara’s pronouncements, coupled with the Bishop’s message and the overall atmosphere of the service, painted a picture of unwavering faith and determined optimism. The emphasis on divine intervention and the symbolic significance of the red pen underscored the governor’s resolve to navigate the challenges of governance with confidence and conviction. The New Year celebration, steeped in prayer and praise, provided a platform for the community to reaffirm their shared commitment to the progress and prosperity of Rivers State. The Governor’s presence and active participation in the service further solidified the link between the spiritual and the secular, emphasizing the importance of faith in guiding the affairs of the state.
The crossover service was more than just a religious observance; it was a powerful statement of collective intent. It served as a platform for the government to articulate its vision for the future, aligning it with the spiritual aspirations of the people. The emphasis on inclusive growth and development, reinforced by the Bishop’s prayers, underscored the government’s commitment to equitable progress and the well-being of all citizens. The event, filled with hope and anticipation, marked not just the beginning of a new year, but the continuation of a journey towards a brighter future for Rivers State, guided by faith and driven by the shared determination of its people and their leaders.
