Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, is widely adored for a variety of reasons. Today, we’ll be counting down the top 20 reasons why Nigerians love Governor Sim, as he’s fondly called. This list focuses on Nigerians’ favourite things about Sir Amaopusenibo Siminalayi “Sim” Joseph Black Fubara: the man, the politician, and the icon.
1. He’s Courageous
Governor Fubara’s courage to challenge the menace of godfatherism has endeared him to millions of Nigerians, Africans, and lovers of democracy worldwide. He made it clear that he was there to serve the interests of Rivers people and not the interests of any godfather. His courage to challenge the status quo made him a hero of democracy and a beacon of hope for many Nigerian youths.
2. He’s a Family Man
Governor Fubara is a loving husband to his wife, First Lady Valerie Fubara, and a caring father to their three beautiful children. His commitment to his family is admirable, and his leadership style reflects his values as a family man. He has shown that a leader can prioritize family and still excel in public office. His values have made him the toast of Nigerians who believe in the importance of family.
3. He’s a Countryman
Born in the small town of Opobo, Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s humble background and down-to-earth personality have endeared him to millions of Nigerians who admire his simplicity and authenticity. His grass-to-grace story is an inspiration to many, and his ability to relate to ordinary Nigerians has made him a beloved figure, bridging the gap between the government and the governed.
4. He’s Academically Accomplished
Governor Fubara’s academic journey is impressive, from Opobo Primary School to the Rivers State University of Science and Technology, where he studied Accountancy. He further obtained his MBA and MSc from the University of Port Harcourt. His academic records have shown that a leader can be both knowledgeable and effective, bringing a high level of expertise and intellectual rigour to governance.
5. He’s a Technocrat
Governor Fubara has had a successful career outside politics, starting as a principal accountant and rising to become permanent secretary and accountant general of Rivers State. He is a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Management and the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria. His technocratic background has earned him respect and admiration. He has shown that a leader can be both experienced and effective.
6. He’s Humble and Kind
Governor Fubara’s kindness and humility have captured the hearts of countless individuals, inspiring a profound sense of admiration and respect. His selfless philanthropic endeavours and humble gestures have consistently demonstrated that he is a leader who genuinely cares about the well-being of his people, prioritising their needs above personal interests.
7. He’s Detribalized
Governor Fubara has demonstrated a remarkable ability to transcend ethnic boundaries, unifying the diverse people of Rivers State and extending a warm embrace to Nigerians from all regions and tribes. His detribalized nature has been a breath of fresh air, breaking down barriers and fostering a sense of belonging among citizens from different ethnic backgrounds.
8. He’s a Devoted Christian
Governor Fubara’s dedication to his Christian faith is a shining example of leadership guided by strong moral principles. As a devoted Christian and a distinguished knight of the St. Christopher (KSC) Order of the Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion, he has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to his beliefs, which are reflected in his compassionate and selfless approach to governance.
9. He’s Religiously Tolerant
Despite being a devoted Christian, Governor Fubara has created an enabling environment for other religions to thrive and co-exist peacefully in the state. He sponsored Muslim pilgrims to the 2024 Hajj and personally bid them farewell, urging them to pray for the state and Nigeria. His religious tolerance has endeared him to many Nigerians who believe in the importance of religious coexistence.
10. He’s a Statesman
Governor Siminalayi Fubara is a statesman who has warmed his way into the hearts of millions with his charismatic leadership style. He holds the traditional chieftaincy title of Amaopu-Senibo of Opobo Kingdom and has shown that a leader can be both traditional and modern. His statesmanship has earned him respect and admiration from both traditional and modern leaders.
11. He’s Handsome
The governor’s elegant physique and charming smile have captured the hearts of many Nigerians who appreciate physical appearance as a reflection of inner beauty. His tall and dark-skinned complexion, combined with his warm and endearing smile, has made him a beloved figure, inspiring admiration and respect from citizens across the country.
12. He’s Women-friendly
Governor Fubara has prioritized the affairs of women in the state, initiating many women-oriented programs in collaboration with the Women Affairs Ministry and Office of the First Lady. His respect for gender is top-notch, and his commitment to women’s empowerment is admirable. He has shown that a leader can be both women-friendly and effective in promoting gender equality.
13. He’s Youth-friendly
Governor Siminalayi Fubara has prioritized the involvement of young people in his government, introducing various entrepreneurship and training programs for the youth, such as the Rivers State Youth Empowerment Scheme. His youth-friendly initiatives have endeared him to many young Nigerians who believe in the importance of youth empowerment.
14. He Loves Children
Governor Siminalayi Fubara has shown his love for children by offering scholarships to many and making donations to orphanages across the state. He is heavily investing in the education sector to secure a better future for the children of Rivers. His love for children has endeared him to many Nigerians who believe in the importance of investing in the future generation.
15. He’s a Nationalist
Governor Fubara’s unwavering commitment to national unity has earned him a reputation as a true statesman, transcending geographical boundaries to embrace Nigerians from all walks of life. Despite being a state Governor, he has demonstrated a remarkable sense of nationalism, extending his kindness and support to citizens from other states, particularly those residing in Rivers State.
16. His Respect for the Rule of Law
Governor Fubara’s respect for the rule of law and democratic principles has earned him the respect of millions. He demonstrated this by allowing the immediate past Local Government Chairmen to complete their tenure smoothly without interference despite their political differences. This show of maturity and respect for the law has endeared him to many Nigerians who believe in the importance of democracy.
17. His Prudent Management of Resources
Governor Fubara’s exemplary management of Rivers State’s resources has established a new paradigm for transparency, accountability, and fiscal responsibility in governance. His prudent approach has yielded immense benefits, optimizing resource allocation, and ensuring that the state’s wealth is utilized for the betterment of all citizens.
18. His Ability to Succeed Amid Distractions
Governor Fubara’s remarkable ability to achieve progress in Rivers State despite various distractions has demonstrated his focus and commitment to delivering results. Despite facing numerous challenges, he has remained steadfast, pushing forward with his vision for a better Rivers State. His determination and perseverance have earned him the respect and support of many Nigerians.
19. His Leadership Style
Governor Fubara’s peaceful and egalitarian leadership style has endeared him to millions of Nigerians who value compassion, empathy, and understanding in a leader. His brand of politics and approach to leadership have made him widely admired, inspiring a new generation of leaders to adopt similar practices. By demonstrating that a leader can be both strong and compassionate, Governor Fubara has redefined the meaning of leadership.
20. He’s Selfless
Fubara’s selfless nature has made him a beloved figure among the people of Rivers and Nigerians in general. His prioritization of the state’s interests over his own or any political godfather’s, regardless of the consequences, has earned him widespread affection and support. He has shown that a leader can put the needs of others before their own.