A prominent Ijaw leader, peace advocate and renowned human and environmental rights activist, Chief Mulade Sheriff, PhD, has extended New Year greetings to Nigerians, urging governments at all levels to embrace prudence, accountability and purposeful governance in 2026, with a focus on fulfilling electoral promises rather than being distracted by early politicking.
Chief Mulade, the Ibe-Serimowei of the ancient Gbaramatu Kingdom, made the call in his New Year message issued on New Year’s Day from Okerenkoko Community, Gbaramatu Kingdom, Delta State.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s prevailing socio-economic challenges, the respected peace ambassador underscored the heavy responsibility placed on leaders at a critical point in the country’s democratic journey.
He observed that many Nigerians are currently grappling with severe economic hardship, a situation he said requires urgent, people-centred interventions from the Federal Government.
The National Coordinator of the Centre for Peace and Environmental Justice (CEPEJ) specifically charged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to intensify efforts aimed at easing the burden on citizens through inclusive and sustainable economic policies that prioritise the welfare of ordinary Nigerians.
“It is imperative to state that Nigerians are going through hard times economically,” Mulade said. “The Federal Government must therefore ensure that policies are people-focused, addressing the daily realities of citizens and restoring hope, stability and confidence in governance.”
Turning to developments in Delta State, the peace and development advocate commended Governor Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori for what he described as an ongoing infrastructural transformation across major urban centres in the state.
He noted that the visible improvements in roads and urban infrastructure reflect the administration’s commitment to development.
However, Chief Mulade urged the governor to ensure that the dividends of development are equitably distributed in 2026, particularly by extending similar infrastructural projects to riverine communities largely inhabited by the Ijaw and Itsekiri people.
“These riverine communities are the source and live wire of the state’s economy through the blue marine economy, oil and gas,” he stated.
“Extending infrastructure to these areas will give the people a greater sense of belonging, strengthen citizen participation, and promote collaboration and partnership in driving sustainable peace and continuous development in Delta State.”
He emphasised that inclusive development remains a critical pillar for sustaining peace in the Niger Delta, noting that communities that feel recognised and supported are more likely to cooperate with government policies and development initiatives.
Chief Mulade also called on citizens, particularly Deltans, to complement government efforts by promoting peace and stability across the state.
“As citizens, we must give the government, particularly Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, maximum support to ensure a peaceful and secure Delta,” he said.
“Peace is essential to attracting investors who can create employment opportunities and drive development in our dear state.”
He further appealed to the various ethnic groups in Delta State to support collaborative efforts that would foster peaceful coexistence, socio-economic stability and sustainable development in 2026.
The Ijaw leader congratulated Nigerians, especially the people of Delta State, on the dawn of the New Year 2026, expressing optimism that the year would bring improved living conditions and greater opportunities for the nation.
He expressed hope that the Delta State 2026 budget of N1.7 trillion would mark a turning point towards responsive governance, economic relief and sustainable development anchored on peace, accountability, transparency and collective responsibility.
You can also like and comment on our YouTube videos.
https://youtu.be/QIBfD1tT80w?si=R4Qf3so2LxYu3GC2
Read more on Champion Newspapers Limited
