SYLVA CALLS PRESIDENT PRIDE OF NIGER DELTA

Bayelsa State Governor, Mr. Timipre Sylva
Bayelsa State Governor, Chief Timipre Sylva, has described Dr. Goodluck Jonathan's emergence as President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces as a pride of the Niger Delta and a significant opportunity to resolve key problems of the region and the country.

Sylva said this on Friday in a congratulatory message to the new president, signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Doifie Ola.

The governor said, 'I want to congratulate you on your inauguration as President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. God has made it happen in His own time and in His own way.

'You are a remarkable man, a rare patriot with a pleasant personality and a wonderful intellect. Nigeria is lucky to have you and Bayelsa State, indeed, Niger Delta, is very lucky to have you as one of our own.'

According to Sylva, Jonathan has 'proven time and time again what hard work and dedication can produce. You put your heart and soul into the awesome national task of steadying and steering the ship of the country during one of its most difficult times, occasioned by the illness of the late President Umaru Musa Yar'Adua. Your perseverance, humility, and focus were amazing.

'While your new position recognises both your previous commitment and service, it moves you to a higher level of leadership that will tap your extensive abilities.'

Sylva, however, told Jonathan that his presidency is a historic opportunity to resolve the age-old problems that have troubled the Niger Delta.'

'Your special interest in resolving the critical problem of power in the country is praiseworthy.

'I know you have a bright vision for Nigeria, and I pledge my full backing for your government as you discharge the sacred national duty of uplifting the country to the benefit of all of us, and to the glory of God,' he said.