Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) stalwart in Rivers State, Prince Tonye Princewill, has expressed confidence in the 12 ministerial nominees sent to the Senate by President Goodluck Jonathan for screening and clearance. Princewill in a press statement issued through his Personal Assistant (Media and Publicity), Wabiye Idoniboye-Obu, shortly after the list was made public yesterday encouraged the National Assembly to screen and approve candidates, describing their nomination as well-deserved.

“The bedrock of good governance,” according to Princewill, “is having a good team behind you; this has been a challenge for previous administrations in our country. In leadership, the systematic balance between human capacity and politics is usually the formula for creating a formidable workforce. In the opening sitting of the Senate, the senate president, David Mark, presented a list of ministerial nominees submitted by Mr. President. On this list are intelligent men and women who have the wherewithal to deliver on targets in the prelude to an election year.”

Princewill congratulated President Jonathan for what he called, “a move in the right direction,” saying: “In one strike, the President has proved he can balance governance and politics.”

The Prince of the Kalabari Kingdom encouraged the nominees to put in their best, and push for excellence. “I am really impressed with the quality of the list and I am confident that they will perform,” he stated.

The list has the likes of retired Lieutenant General Aliyu Mohamed Gusau from Zamfara State, an intelligence expert who held all the exalted security positions in the land, from Chief of Army Staff to National Security Adviser. “This has stamped his legacy in the defence unit of our country,” Princewill said, adding: “Also on the list is Senator Musiliu Obanikoro from Lagos State, who as senator proposed motions that affected the lives of many Nigerians. From bills that checkmated the overflow of the Atlantic Ocean in Lagos and the condition of the Abuja Stadium to resolving the clash between men of the Nigerian Police Force and Nigerian Army in the west; Obanikoro has made his mark. Dr. T. W. Danagogo from Rivers State has served the people in various capacities. From Local Government Chairman to Commissioner of a complicated ministry, Dr. Danagogo has delivered on all counts especially in how he handled his final days in office with Amaechi.”

According to Princewill, “The Kalabari Kingdom needed a boost after Soku and the loss of Ajumogobia. I suspect this is the first step to resolving Soku, an issue which our people take very seriously.”

Princewill cheered existing ministers to keep up the good work and aid the President move the country forward. He also urged them to welcome the new ministers with open arms and together form a team of winners. “I am particularly impressed with the women in Mr. President’s cabinet. The Petroleum and Finance ministers both deserve a pat on the back,” he said, adding:

“2014 will be an interesting year, but the synergy between the incoming and existing ministers should be top of the agenda. The President’s return in 2015 is hinged on their performance and they cannot afford to fail.”

•Photo shows Prince Tonye Princewill.

Update news