New Opobo ltraditional ruler unveils plan to make kingdom agric hub

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The new paramount ruler of Opobo Kingdom, Rivers, Charles Jaja, says he will seek partnerships to make the kingdom a hub for agriculture and agribusiness in the Niger Delta.

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Jaja made this known during his coronation ceremony on Saturday in Opobo Town, Opobo/Nkoro Local Government Area of Rivers.

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He expressed optimism that accelerating agriculture development would create thousands of jobs and fast-track the development of the kingdom.

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According to him, Opobo was once known for its vibrant agro economy in the late 1800s, which transformed the old Eastern Niger Delta.

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He said that his forefather, King Jaja, built the kingdom’s economic influence through ingenuity and intelligence, particularly by dominating the waterways in his early days.

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Jaja pledged that his administration would strengthen economic ties across regions and explore partnerships capable of boosting agriculture and agribusiness.

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The traditional ruler also called for improved infrastructure in oil-bearing communities and optimal implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act.

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“We remain hopeful that the optimal implementation of the PIA will benefit oil-bearing communities,” he said.

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Jaja said that the needs Opobo people included durable roads, jetties, shoreline protection, quality healthcare, tertiary educational institutions and functional skills development centres.

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He commended the government for recognising the traditional institutions and pledged to promote unity, truth and Justice throughout the kingdom.

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Former President Goodluck Jonathan congratulated Jaja on his ascension to the throne, describing the coronation as a symbol of cultural preservation.

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Jonathan said that the Opobo throne represented the legacy of a proud people whose contributions to the development of the Niger Delta and Nigeria remained significant.

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He expressed confidence that Jaja’s reign would bring peace, unity and development to Opobo kingdom.

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“I am hopeful that you would enjoy the partnership that you deserve from the government and relevant authorities.

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“I am also confident that you will use the dignity of your office to preserve the values and traditions handed down by your forebears,” Jonathan said.

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Rivers Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, congratulated Jaja, saying that his coronation will further strengthen peace, unity and development in the kingdom.

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Represented the Deputy Governor, Prof. Ngozi Odu, Fubara described the coronation as a celebration of historical identity, culture and enduring heritage.

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He said that the rich tradition of the Opobo people remained an important part of the cultural identity of Rivers and Nigeria.

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“As a government, we recognise the important role of the traditional institution in preserving our cultural values and promoting unity within our communities.

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“We encourage our traditional rulers to continue to serve as custodians of our heritage, and partners in the development of our state,” he said.

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Fubara prayed that the traditional ruler’s reign would be marked by unity, progress and purposeful leadership.

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Prominent traditional rulers attended the coronation, including the Igwe of Onitsha, and the Olu of Warri.

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