A prominent Ijaw leader, peace advocate, and environmental rights activist, Chief Sheriff Mulade, PhD, has welcomed Nigerians to the New Year 2026, urging leaders at all levels of government to prioritise prudence, accountability, and purposeful governance over early politicking ahead of future elections.
Mulade, the Ibe-Serimowei of the ancient Gbaramatu Kingdom, made the call in a New Year message issued on Thursday at Okerenkoko Community, Gbaramatu Kingdom, Delta State.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s current socio-economic challenges, the renowned peace ambassador said the worsening economic hardship facing citizens requires urgent, people-centred interventions by the Federal Government.
The National Coordinator of the Centre for Peace and Environmental Justice (CEPEJ) specifically called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to intensify efforts aimed at easing the burden on Nigerians through inclusive and sustainable economic policies.
“Nigerians are going through very hard times economically,” Mulade said. “Government policies must be people-focused, address daily realities, and restore hope, stability, and confidence in governance.”
Turning to Delta State, Mulade commended Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori for what he described as visible infrastructural development across major urban centres, noting that improvements in road networks and city infrastructure demonstrate the administration’s commitment to development.
However, he urged the governor to ensure that development in 2026 is evenly distributed, particularly by extending critical infrastructure to riverine communities largely inhabited by the Ijaw and Itsekiri people.
“These riverine communities are the life wire of Delta State’s economy through the blue marine economy, oil, and gas,” he said.
“Extending infrastructure to these areas will foster inclusion, strengthen citizen participation, and promote sustainable peace and development.”
Mulade stressed that inclusive development is essential for lasting peace in the Niger Delta, noting that communities that feel recognised and supported are more likely to collaborate with government policies and initiatives.
He also called on citizens, especially Deltans, to actively support government efforts to maintain peace and stability, stressing that development cannot thrive without public cooperation.
“Peace is critical to attracting investors, creating jobs, and driving sustainable development,” he said, appealing to all ethnic groups in Delta State to embrace collaboration and peaceful coexistence in 2026.
The Ijaw leader congratulated Nigerians, particularly the people of Delta State, on the dawn of the New Year, expressing optimism that 2026 would bring improved living conditions and expanded opportunities.
He expressed hope that Delta State’s ₦1.7 trillion 2026 budget would mark a turning point toward responsive governance, economic relief, and sustainable development anchored on peace, accountability, transparency, and collective responsibility.
