Timipreye Sylva, the former Minister of State for Petroleum and the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the upcoming November gubernatorial election in Bayelsa State, has reaffirmed his unwavering belief in his party’s chances of assuming control of the state.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
In a conversation with State House correspondents on Tuesday, Sylva disclosed that he engaged in discussions about this matter during a meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa.
Sylva underscored the robust presence of the APC within the state, underscoring his optimism for a favorable outcome in the upcoming election….CONTINUE READING
He stated, “We are fully prepared to take over Bayelsa, and I found it necessary to update Mr. President on our efforts and also seek advice from him.
As you know, I have served as a governor and have been actively involved in Bayelsa’s politics since its inception. I am well acquainted with Bayelsa, and the state is equally familiar with me.”
He continued, “In 2019, we won the election. The current governor secured victory in only two local governments during that election.
However, events transpired that led to changes. In 2015, we also emerged victorious, but the results in Southern Ijaw were invalidated and had to be re-conducted due to certain circumstances.”
Sylva expressed strong confidence in the APC’s position within Bayelsa and affirmed his conviction that the party would triumph once again.
He also extended his commendation to President Tinubu for his accomplishments, particularly highlighting the importance of a comprehensive understanding of the economy to drive progress.
Sylva applauded President Tinubu for swiftly removing the fuel subsidy upon assuming office—a long-standing aspiration for numerous administrations.
He perceived this accomplishment as indicative of a potential economic transformation and a departure from past electoral pledges.
He added, “I took this opportunity to praise Mr. President for the remarkable work he’s been doing. For many years, successive administrations in Nigeria have aimed to eliminate the fuel subsidy.
Even during my tenure, we considered this. It has also been a recurring campaign promise in presidential elections. However, for Mr. President to achieve this milestone on his very first day in office is truly commendable.
We’ve witnessed significant developments in monetary policy as well, and we extend our commendation for these efforts.”
Sylva highlighted the historic agreement between states and the federal government to share N1.9 trillion for the first time in Nigeria. He perceived this as a groundbreaking occurrence, indicating the potential for a significant economic turnaround in the country.
Speaking about his six-point agenda for economic development, Sylva stressed the importance of initiatives such as human capital development, infrastructure enhancement, fostering a gas-based economy, boosting rice production, stabilizing power supply, and enhancing security.
He underscored the strategic significance of these endeavors in propelling Bayelsa’s growth, leveraging the state’s abundant natural resources including extensive gas reserves and fertile swamp lands suitable for rice cultivation.
Sylva also highlighted the significance of his extensive experience as he approaches his upcoming term. He emphasized his journey from being a young governor in his 40s to evolving into a seasoned leader approaching his 60s.
He expressed confidence that his extensive understanding of global dynamics, coupled with his recognition on the world stage, would facilitate a transformative era for Bayelsa.
