A prominent Ijaw leader, peace advocate, and renowned human and environmental rights activist, Chief Mulade Sheriff, PhD, has urged the Federal and State Governments to prioritise accountability, prudence, and people-focused governance in 2026, stressing the need to deliver on electoral promises rather than being distracted by political calculations ahead of future elections.
Chief Mulade, who is the Ibe-Serimowei of the ancient Gbaramatu Kingdom, made the call in his New Year message issued on January 1, 2026, from Okerenkoko Community, Gbaramatu Kingdom, Delta State.
Reflecting on the prevailing socio-economic challenges confronting the nation, the respected peace ambassador described the current period as a critical phase in Nigeria’s democratic journey, requiring decisive, compassionate, and responsible leadership.
According to him, Nigerians are grappling with severe economic hardship, a situation that demands urgent and people-oriented interventions from 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 economic burden on citizens through inclusive and sustainable policies that prioritise the welfare of ordinary Nigerians.
“It is imperative to state that Nigerians are going through hard times in the economy,” Mulade said. “The Federal Government must therefore ensure that policies are people-focused, addressing the daily realities of citizens and restoring hope, stability, and confidence in governance.”
Turning his attention to Delta State, Chief Mulade commended Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori for what he described as an ongoing infrastructural development drive across major urban centres in the state.
He noted that visible improvements in roads and urban infrastructure reflect the administration’s commitment to development and progress.
However, the Ijaw leader urged the governor to ensure that development efforts in 2026 are equitably distributed, particularly by extending similar infrastructural projects to riverine communities, largely inhabited by the Ijaw and Itsekiri ethnic nationalities.
“These riverine communities are the sources and live wire of the state’s economy through the blue marine economy, oil and gas,” he stated. “Extending infrastructure to these areas will give the people a greater sense of belonging, strengthen citizen participation, and promote collaboration for sustainable peace and continuous development in Delta State.”
Chief Mulade emphasised that inclusive development remains a key factor in sustaining peace in the Niger Delta, noting that communities that feel recognised and supported are more likely to cooperate with government policies and development initiatives.
He also called on citizens, particularly Deltans, to play their part in fostering peace and stability, stressing that government efforts alone cannot achieve sustainable development without public cooperation.
“As citizens, we must give government, particularly Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, maximum support to ensure a peaceful and secure Delta State,” he said. “Peace is essential for attracting investors who can create jobs and drive development in our dear state.”
He further appealed to the various ethnic groups in Delta State to embrace collaboration and peaceful coexistence, noting that unity and mutual understanding are essential for socio-economic stability and development in 2026.
Chief Mulade congratulated Nigerians, especially the people of Delta State, on the dawn of the New Year 2026, expressing optimism that the year would usher in improved living conditions and greater opportunities for the nation.
He expressed hope that the ₦1.7 trillion Delta State 2026 budget would serve as a turning point toward responsive governance, economic relief, and sustainable development anchored on peace, accountability, transparency, and collective responsibility.
