By Victor Ahiuma-Young

The Obi of Owa, His Majesty, Obi Dr Emmanuel Efeizomor II, has called on Nigerians to embrace peace, unity and good neighbourliness as the nation enters the year 2026, stressing that enhanced security remains critical to national development.

The monarch gave the charge in his New Year message to Nigerians, urging citizens to foster peaceful coexistence across ethnic, religious and political divides.

According to him, only sustained peace, unity and improved security can guarantee rapid socio-economic and political development in the country.

Dr Efeizomor II, who is the immediate past Chairman of the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council, called on those in positions of authority to initiate policies and programmes that would cushion the prevailing economic hardship and make life more meaningful for Nigerians.

He commended the Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, for what he described as exceptional performance in the delivery of dividends of democracy, particularly in the areas of infrastructural development, urban renewal, empowerment of the people and prudent management of state resources.

The royal father also praised Governor Oborevwori for maintaining a cordial relationship with traditional rulers in the state, noting that the governor has shown great respect for the traditional institution.

Calling for stronger unity and synergy among royal fathers in Delta State, the monarch said such cooperation was necessary for traditional rulers to continue to earn the respect, trust and support of the people as custodians of culture and tradition.
He urged political leaders at all levels to be more patriotic, lead by example and demonstrate greater commitment to building a more humane, egalitarian and functional nation.

He also reiterated the need for continued unity and peaceful coexistence among Nigeria’s diverse ethnic nationalities.
Dr Efeizomor II encouraged Nigerians not to despair over the current harsh economic realities but to remain hopeful and optimistic about a better and brighter future.
Reflecting on the outgoing year, the Owa monarch described 2025 as particularly difficult for most Nigerians due to multidimensional socio-economic and security challenges. He called on the nation’s political leaders to rise to the responsibility of fixing the country, stressing that “only Nigerians can fix Nigeria.”

The monarch admonished Nigerian youths not to lose faith in the country, urging them to remain focused, resilient and determined to succeed in whatever field of endeavour they choose.

On insecurity, he called on the Federal Government to strengthen cooperation with the United States and other international partners in the fight against insurgency, banditry and other criminal activities troubling the nation.

He also commended the media for living up to their constitutional role as the watchdog of society, urging journalists not to relent in their responsibility as the fourth arm of government.