President Bola Tinubu has lifted the state of emergency earlier declared in Rivers State, paving the way for Governor Siminalayi Fubara to resume office on Thursday, September 18, 2025.

In a statement issued by the Presidency on Wednesday, Tinubu also directed Deputy Governor Ngozi Nma Odu and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, to return to their respective duties.

Tinubu had declared a state of emergency in the oil-rich state six months ago, following heightened political tensions.

Announcing the suspension of the measure, the President said:

 “It therefore gives me great pleasure to declare that the emergency in Rivers State of Nigeria shall end with effect from midnight today. The Governor, His Excellency Siminalayi Fubara, the Deputy Governor, Her Excellency Ngozi Nma Odu, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly and the Speaker, Martins Amaewhule, will resume work in their offices from 18 September 2025.”

The development marks a significant turning point in the political landscape of Rivers State, as normal governance activities are expected to resume after months of federal control.