By Ola ‘Kiya, Reporting
A frontline Ijaw leader and respected peace advocate, Chief Mulade Sheriff, PhD, has charged Nigerian leaders to make 2026 a year of responsible governance, accountability and people-focused leadership, warning against governance driven by early election calculations.
Chief Mulade, the Ibe-Serimowei of the ancient Gbaramatu Kingdom, made the call in his New Year message released on New Year’s Day from Okerenkoko Community in Gbaramatu Kingdom, Delta State.
In the message, the renowned human and environmental rights activist reflected on Nigeria’s current socio-economic realities, describing the period as a defining moment for leadership at all levels of government.
According to him, the growing economic hardship facing Nigerians demands urgent and pragmatic interventions from the Federal Government, anchored on policies that directly improve the living conditions of ordinary citizens.
The National Coordinator of the Centre for Peace and Environmental Justice (CEPEJ) urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to deepen efforts aimed at economic recovery through inclusive and sustainable policies that prioritise citizens’ welfare.
“Nigerians are passing through extremely difficult economic times,” Chief Mulade stated. “Government policies must be people-driven, addressing the everyday struggles of citizens and rebuilding trust, confidence and hope in governance.”
Speaking on Delta State, the peace ambassador commended Governor Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori for what he described as remarkable infrastructural strides across major cities in the state, noting that improvements in road networks and urban infrastructure are already visible.
He, however, stressed the need for balanced development across the state, urging the governor to extend similar infrastructural attention to riverine communities predominantly inhabited by the Ijaw and Itsekiri people.
Chief Mulade noted that these riverine areas remain central to Delta State’s economic survival, particularly through the blue economy, oil and gas resources.
“Infrastructure development in the riverine communities will strengthen inclusion, deepen citizens’ sense of belonging and promote cooperation between government and the people,” he said. “Such inclusion is vital for sustainable peace and long-term development in Delta State.”
He further emphasised that peace in the Niger Delta is closely tied to inclusive governance, adding that communities that feel valued are more likely to support government initiatives and development programmes.
The Ijaw leader also appealed to Deltans to support government efforts by promoting peace and unity across ethnic lines, stressing that development cannot thrive in an atmosphere of insecurity.
“Government alone cannot sustain peace,” he said. “Citizens must support the Oborevwori administration to ensure a peaceful and secure Delta State, which is essential for attracting investors, creating jobs and driving economic growth.”
He specifically called on ethnic nationalities in the state to strengthen collaboration and peaceful coexistence as a foundation for socio-economic stability in 2026.
Congratulating Nigerians on the New Year, Chief Mulade expressed optimism that 2026 would usher in improved living standards and renewed opportunities.
He also expressed confidence that Delta State’s 2026 budget of N1.7 trillion would serve as a catalyst for responsive governance, economic relief and sustainable development built on peace, transparency, accountability and collective responsibility.
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