Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has pledged that the state government will take deliberate steps to immortalise the memory of late Pa Monday Perekeme Sinclair, the respected former Super Eagles coach who passed away at the age of 89.
Governor Fubara made the commitment on Thursday during a service of songs held in honour of the late football legend at the Ecumenical Centre, Abonnema Wharf Road, Port Harcourt.
Addressing an audience of family members, football stakeholders, and dignitaries, Fubara described the late Sinclair as “a man of wisdom, humility and uncommon dedication, whose legacy in football development remains unmatched.”
According to a statement signed by Nelson Chukwudi, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Fubara praised the deceased’s lifelong devotion to mentoring young talents and shaping the future of Nigerian football.
“It will be improper and not complete if the state does not feature in this kind of programme, knowing the role late Monday Sinclair played in Rivers State when it comes to football. He was one-time our coach,” the governor said.
He assured the audience that his administration would take “concrete and deliberate measures” to ensure that the late coach’s contributions are remembered for generations.
“On behalf of the state and also as a friend to the family, I assure you that wherever we need to come in to immortalise the memory of this great man in the state, we will do that,” Fubara stated.
The governor expressed his condolences to the family, urging them to find strength in faith and the comforting legacy of their patriarch.
“The number of persons here to console you cannot fill the gap. The only person that can fill this gap is God. While we feel sad that he’s gone, we should also be happy that he has gone to be with the Lord. It’s a place of rest, where there is no insecurity, no need for a bulletproof car or a gate to your flat,” he said.
Fubara also used the occasion to call for peace and unity among Rivers people, noting that continued harmony is essential for the state’s growth and progress.
“Only peace has made it possible for our administration to continue delivering development to the people. We must remain united, for in unity there is strength,” the governor added.
Pa Monday Sinclair, a revered figure in Nigerian football, was known for his discipline, mentorship, and contributions to developing sports in Rivers State and beyond.
The event was attended by notable sports administrators, government officials, and former players, all of whom paid glowing tributes to the late coach’s enduring legacy.
