From Tony John, Port Harcourt
Former President Goodluck Jonathan has declared that Rivers State Gove1rnor, Nyesom Wike, has performed creditably well since he assumed office 22 months ago.
Jonathan lauded the Rivers State governor for transforming the state since he became the governor.
The former President was led on a tour of projects in Government House by Governor Wike, which include the new amphitheatre, the Government House chapel, restored Old Brick House (former seat of power in Rivers State), new corridor of power and extended Landscape.
Addressing journalists at the Government House, Port Harcourt, after inspecting projects being executed by Wike, the former President stated that Wike was a worthy representative of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
He praised the governor for keeping the torch glowing by his exemplary performance, which he said has justified his election by the people of the State.
Jonathan noted that Governor Wike’s outstanding performance had become the common story across the country, pointing out that he has been hearing about the good works of the governor. He pointed out that the governor had lived up to his reputation.
He noted that since Governor Wike was sworn in, yesterday was his first time of driving round Port Harcourt, and expressed satisfaction with the quality of transformation he witnessed in the Government House, Port Harcourt.
He said: “I am part of Rivers State. I grew up in Rivers State and Bayelsa was carved out of Rivers State. Also, my wife is from Rivers State. Today, is my first day of visiting Rivers State since Wike assumed office as Governor. About 22 months down the line, I am quite impressed with what I have seen.
“First, I heard so much, people have told me of the changes in Port Harcourt. I was told that I can’t even recognise the roads to where I used to live. As we drove into the city, I noticed that he has done very well in various areas.
“One thing I must commend Wike for is that he has positive traits. I always believe that wherever you find yourself, add value. Governo1r Wike has added value in Rivers State. He has done weĺl to show his signature.
“Wike has taken us round. We have seen how he has transformed the Brick House and maintains that Brick House. We saw the changes he has made in some places in the Government House, including building an amphitheatre, a new chapel for worship, relaxing places and general beautification.
“If you are the chief executive of an institution, you stay for two years and you add no value, then you have no vision. Wike is doing well and we commend him. He is a good representative of the PDP who is committed to developing his people.”
He thanked Nigerians for appreciating his contributions to the development of the country, even after he had left office.
Speaking while conducting the former President round the projects at the Government House, Port Harcourt, Governor Wike said his commitment was to lift the state to higher heights.
He noted that the Old Brick House was restored with certain additions because of the need to preserve history of governance in the State.
The governor noted that the new amphitheatre being constructed at the Government House would host high profile guests who visit the State.
According to him, the New Government House, Port Harcourt, Chapel, which will host about 300 persons, would provide a venue for interdenominational Christian worship.
He thanked the former President for the visit , assuring him that he would continue to live up to the expectations of the people.