The Rivers State Government in South-South Nigeria, has reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of the Governor Siminalayi Fubara–led administration to empowering vulnerable groups and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) across the state.
The Rivers State Deputy Governor, Prof. Ngozi Odu, made this declaration during her decoration and presentation with the United Nations Global Icon of Peace and Integrity Award by the International Face of Peace and Integrity Advocates at the Government House, Port Harcourt the State capital.
She explained that the state government has deliberately positioned key ministries and agencies to align with the SDGs, particularly the Ministries of Health, Education, Agriculture, and Women Affairs, which she described as the core pillars driving the administration’s development agenda.
According to the Deputy Governor, the Fubara administration remains resolute in deepening its focus on the SDGs, with policies and programmes designed to ensure that their impact is most felt by vulnerable and underserved groups across Rivers State.
Describing the recognition as more than a personal honour, she said the award represents a renewed call to greater service and responsibility to humanity.
“I want to thank you for the honour, it is not just an award; it is a wake-up call, a task, that whatever I am doing that earned me this award, I should do more,” she said.
The Rivers State Deputy Governor also commended the choice of Rivers State as host of the event, noting that it sends a strong message that the state is peaceful, stable, and open to investment. Prof. Odu further described the event’s theme, “Peaceful Coexistence,” as timely, stressing that dialogue, negotiation, and mutual understanding remain the most effective tools for resolving conflicts and sustaining peace.
Expressing gratitude to the organizers, she assured them that the award would serve as a lasting reminder and motivation to intensify her service to humanity.
Earlier, the Global Director of the International Face of Peace and Integrity Advocates, Dr. Chinaza Jennifer Ugboaja, said the delegation visited the Government House to formally decorate Prof. Odu with the prestigious award.
She disclosed that the Deputy Governor is the first Nigerian and the second African woman to receive the honour.
Dr. Ugboaja attributed the recognition to Prof. Odu’s outstanding achievements, leadership, and dedication to peace and development, noting that her example continues to inspire younger generations.
She added that the organization promotes peace, advocates peaceful coexistence, supports the SDGs, and operates as United Nations Peace Promoters with Integrity.