Rivers State has reiterated its commitment to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through the empowerment of vulnerable groups.
Deputy Governor Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu made this known during her decoration with the “United Nations Global Icon of Peace and Integrity Award” by the International Face of Peace and Integrity Advocates (IFOPIA) at Government House, Port Harcourt.
Prof. Odu highlighted that under Governor Sir Siminalayi Fubara, key ministries—including Health, Education, Agriculture, and Women Affairs—are strategically aligned with the SDGs, forming the core pillars of the administration’s development agenda. She described the award as a call to deepen her service to humanity and praised the organizers for hosting the event in Rivers State, underscoring the state’s peace and investment potential.
Dr. Chinaza Jennifer Ugboaja, IFOPIA’s Global Director, noted that Prof. Odu is the first Nigerian and second African woman to receive the honour, recognizing her dedication, leadership, and inspiration for future generations.
The event, themed “Peaceful Coexistence”, emphasized dialogue, negotiation, and mutual understanding as key pathways to sustaining peace while advancing the SDGs.