Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has declared that Nigeria's progress hinges on placing God-fearing individuals in leadership positions, asserting that moral failure in governance has driven corruption, poverty, and social inequality across the country. Fubara made this statement on Thursday, July 2, during a courtesy visit by the World President of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, Pastor Erton Kohler, at Government House in Port Harcourt.
Fubara Links Leadership Deficit to National Crises
Fubara argued that the absence of divine reverence in leadership has led to widespread criminality and economic hardship. "Our country is where it is today because we lack the fear of God," he said. "If you have the fear of God, there should be a limit to what you can do because you understand the supremacy of God. But when God is not in your equation, you'll go beyond the line, and that is what has brought us to where we are today."
The governor emphasized that workers who earn fair wages, have access to quality healthcare, and can afford housing after years of honest labor would have no incentive to engage in crime. "If we have a situation where the little money you're paid as wages can also afford you quality healthcare and after working for at least 15 to 20 years you have a roof over your head, tell me why you should be involved in any kind of crime?" he asked.
Seventh-day Adventist Church's Global Reach
Pastor Erton Kohler, the World President of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, disclosed that the denomination has over 24 million members across 212 countries, with more than 182,000 places of worship worldwide. He noted that his visit to Nigeria was to attend a special conference aimed at empowering thousands of ministers to better serve their congregations and society at large. Kohler expressed gratitude for the warm reception and described the engagement with Fubara as memorable.
Fubara commended the Seventh-day Adventist Church for its investments in education, noting that it operates two universities in Nigeria and has consistently trained future leaders through its institutions. He urged religious organizations to move beyond doctrinal defense and focus on tangible societal impact.
Fubara Reaffirms APC Membership Ahead of 2027
Amid speculation about his political allegiance, Fubara dismissed reports that he had defected from the All Progressives Congress (APC), insisting he remains a member of the ruling party. The governor spoke in response to social media claims that he had joined another political platform ahead of the 2027 general election. He reaffirmed his commitment to the APC and its vision for Nigeria.
The visit by the Seventh-day Adventist delegation included Kohler's wife, Andriene Marques Kohler, their daughter, Mariana Marques Kohler, and other senior church leaders. Fubara thanked the delegation for their prayers and pledged continued support for the church's programs in Rivers State.
