Port Harcourt—HRH Samuel Sambo, the Amadabo of Sambo-ama in Twon Brass Kingdom, Bayelsa State has opined that there can only be sustainable development amongst the Nembe-Brass people if they will stop fighting and killing themselves over their resources.
The monarch, who said the Nembe-Brass clime is one of the naturally endowed geographic locations in the world, lamented that the area is still underdeveloped.
He urged them to develop their minds and indulge in things that will engender development in their communities.
Sambo stated this in his address on Thursday during a public lecture tagged “Transforming Nembe-Brass communities For Sustainable Future” and the launch of the Sambo Foundation to commemorate his 60th birthday anniversary in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
He urged people from the area to stop the fighting and bloodletting, especially over politics and instead embrace peace and seek ways to develop their communities.
“With a renewed mindset, we will always put the interest of our communities first before considering our personal interests.
“Nembe-Brass cannot move forward if we, the people, cannot dispel the personal and communal grudges we have harboured in our minds for years.
“There can only be sustainable development if and when we stop fighting and killing one another over the control and distribution of our immense God-give
n resources.
“Transforming our communities is not only the duty of the kings, chiefs, and those occupying exalted political offices.”
“If people from other climes could play politics and even disagree without resorting to violence, then the people of Nembe-Brass- who are known for exceptional brilliance and self-pride can do so—and even better too. I believe that to whom much is given, much is expected.”
The monarch who is celebrating his 60th birthday anniversary pledged to continue to be a good role model to the younger generation as well as give good advice to political leaders for the good of society at large.
The ruler who also launched the Sambo Foundation during the event disclosed that the reason is to continue his philanthropic legacy, adding that he hopes that his actions will continue to inspire his children to impact their community and society.
“Thus, on my part and as I climb the 6th floor today, I have elected to remain a beneficial king, royal father, and mentor to my people.
“With God helping me, I will use my privileges to attract good things to all Brass, the Niger Delta, and Nigeria. I will not be a part of any cause that will divide or retrogress our people.
“The main reason I have decided to establish the Sambo Foundation is to continue my philanthropic legacy and I hope that my children will continue to impact lives and communities positively,” he said
The monarch who was interviewed by newsmen after the event disclosed that he has practiced the act of giving all his life and advised people to “always give” regardless of the attitude of the receiver.
He said he feels good and disclosed that he will take his philanthropic deeds to cover the whole of the Niger Delta region going forward.
Earlier, the Keynote address was given by Dr. Emmanuel Denennu while the panel discussion featured Dr. Uche Igwe, visiting fellow, London School of Economics and Political Science, Ms. Etemore Glover, CEO of Impact Investors Foundation, and Dr. Labatam of Killsi Trust Foundation.
Nine students were offered scholarships by the Sambo Foundation, with each going home with N250,000.
The event was attended by traditional rulers, politicians, captains of industries, and other dignitaries.
