Independence: Sylva hails Nigeria’s deepening sense of patriotism

 …Applauds President Buhari for his administration’s drive towards unity and development 

-By Saidu Abubakar

Minister of State for Petroleum Resources and former governor of Bayelsa state, Chief Timipre Sylva sends warm felicitations on this year’s independence celebrations, describing it as an opportunity to evaluate our patriotism as well as a moment of deep national pride.

“Our history, as diverse as our great nation”, Sylva is certain, “constantly reflects the relentless spirit of our people. We fought for a sovereign nation and on that spectacular night in 1960 we took the Union Jack off our poles for the national flag. We survived socio-political anxieties, we survived a war that almost undid our foundations and yet here we are: a united, proud nation with numerous highlights of glowing successes we can all be proud of.”

Julius Bokoru, Technical Assistant, Media and Public Affairs to the Hon. Minister of State, in a statement issued in Abuja, said that Sylva urges Nigerians, “young and old, and of every religion and creed, to keep the flame of patriotism burning as it has been, and still is, the key fulcrum of our greatness.”

The statement further added that beyond our deepening sense of nationhood, Sylva is excited, too, about the huge reservoir of human resources, tapped and yet to be tapped, Nigeria is blessed with. “That quality and quantity of potentials especially of our country’s young reflects the trajectory of Nigeria: a nation that will increasingly get better, stronger, more united and prosperous.

“I thank President Buhari for his leadership which, apparently, has repositioned Nigeria to clearer, smoother courses. I also thank the good people of our dear country for their unyielding love, prayers and patriotism for the nation,” the statement added while wishing Nigeria and Nigerians a Happy 59th Independence Anniversay.