By Henry Umoru

ABUJA — The Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), the apex socio-political body of the South-South geopolitical zone, has congratulated Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, and former Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Seriake Dickson, on their 51st and 60th birthday anniversaries respectively.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by PANDEF National Chairman, Ambassador Godknows Igali, the organisation noted that although the birthdays are being marked at a solemn period for the Niger Delta region, it remains grateful to God for the gift of the two leaders.

The statement read in part:

“Today, the Board of Trustees and the National Executive Committee of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) join the national chorus in celebrating two of our most illustrious citizens, Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State and former Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Seriake Dickson, as they mark their 51st and 60th birthday anniversaries respectively.

“Though these celebrations occur at a solemn moment across the Niger Delta region, we nonetheless thank God Almighty for the gift of these great leaders.

“In the collective efforts by leaders at various levels to properly position the South-South geopolitical zone, it is incontrovertible that these two individuals stand out. At 51, Governor Fubara continues to impact the socio-economic landscape of Rivers State in remarkable ways and with commendable speed. Today, Rivers State is widely regarded as a leading centre of growth and progress in Nigeria.

“Similarly, Senator Seriake Dickson, in his previous role as Governor of Bayelsa State and now as a member of the upper chamber of the National Assembly, exemplifies true statesmanship at the occasion of his diamond jubilee. He remains a voice of reason, candour, and accountability in the Senate and in national politics.

“PANDEF salutes their individual and collective contributions to the sustainable development and peace of the South-South. Of equal importance is their continued impact on nation-building and democratic consolidation anchored on equity, fairness, and justice.

“We also take this opportunity to acknowledge other leaders and selfless citizens whose strenuous efforts often go unrecognised.

“We convey the collective prayers of the entire people of the Niger Delta for the continued outpouring of God’s blessings upon them and all our people.”