Rivers Deputy Gov Bags UN Peace Award, Projects State As Hub Of Stability, SDG Commitment

The Deputy Governor of Rivers State, Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu, has reaffirmed the commitment of the Governor Siminalayi Fubara administration to empowering vulnerable groups and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), following her recognition with the United Nations Global Icon of Peace and Integrity Award.

Prof. Odu received the prestigious award on Monday, February 2, 2026, at the Government House, Port Harcourt, from the International Face of Peace and Integrity Advocates, an organisation affiliated with the United Nations’ peace promotion initiatives.

Describing the honour as both a recognition and a responsibility, the Deputy Governor said the award underscored Rivers State’s growing reputation as a peaceful, stable and development-driven state.

“This is more than an award. It is a wake-up call and a renewed task. Whatever I have been doing that earned this recognition, I must do more in the service of humanity,” she said.

Prof. Odu noted that the Fubara-led administration has deliberately aligned key ministries and agencies with the SDGs, identifying Health, Education, Agriculture and Women Affairs as the core pillars driving inclusive growth and social protection in the state.

She assured that government policies would continue to prioritise vulnerable groups, stressing that the administration remains deeply committed to ensuring that the dividends of governance are felt across all strata of society.

The Deputy Governor also commended the decision to host the 2026 award ceremony in Rivers State, describing it as a powerful statement of confidence in the state’s peace, stability and investment potential.

According to her, the theme of the event, “Peaceful Coexistence,” was particularly timely, noting that dialogue, negotiation and mutual understanding remain essential tools for resolving conflicts and sustaining peace.

Earlier, the Global Director of the International Face of Peace and Integrity Advocates, Dr. Chinaza Jennifer Ugboaja, said Prof. Odu was honoured in recognition of her leadership, integrity and commitment to peace and sustainable development.

She disclosed that Prof. Odu is the first Nigerian and the second African woman to receive the Global Icon of Peace and Integrity Award, describing her achievements as inspirational to younger generations across the continent. Dr. Ugboaja explained that the organisation works to promote peace, advocate peaceful coexistence, support the SDGs and serve globally as United Nations Peace Promoters with Integrity.