Bayelsa State Governor, the Honorable Henry Seriake Dickson, has described 2018 as a year of hope and revival in virtually all spheres of national life, especially in the areas of security and economic prosperity.

A press statement by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Francis Ottah Agbo, noted that Dickson, who made the declaration at an interdenominational crossover church service in his hometown, Toru Orua, expressed optimism that, the new year carries better prospects than the outgone 2017.

He, however, called on Nigerians to continually uphold their leaders in prayers to enable them make sound decisions to expand the frontiers of development in the new year.

He said the call for more support and encouragement from the people remains imperative, as according to him, only those occupying positions of authority could bring about the desired change in the country.

The Governor, who underscored that leadership entails critical decision-making, particularly urged Nigerians to pray for divine wisdom, direction and health for leaders to execute projects, policies and programmes in the best interest of the citizenry.

His words: “By the grace of God, year 2018 is going to bring more hope, greater development, security and above all, it is going to usher in greater prosperity for all of us.

“All I ask is your continued support and prayers for all our leaders in this nation. Pray for us to be guided and that we should have divine wisdom, direction, strength and health to do the work that it has pleased God Almighty to entrust on us.”

While thanking Bayelsans and religious bodies for their continued support, Governor Dickson reassured the people of the state of his administration’s commitment towards the completion of all ongoing projects in the state.

Emphasising the need for peace, he warned criminal elements to have a change of heart or leave the state, as the government would not hesitate in taking decisive actions against them to guarantee the continued stability and security of the state for development to thrive.

As usual, Governor Dickson also used the occasion to announce Psalms Chapter Seven, verse One as the state memory verse for year 2018, and wished the people of the state well in all their endeavours.

Earlier in her message, the Guest Preacher, Prophetess Eunice Alfred Egba, enjoined Christians to emulate the biblical Shunamite woman by trusting God at all times for breakthroughs as they come across challenges in life.

The service, which featured special prayers for Bayelsa and Nigeria as a whole, had wife of the Governor, Dr Rachel Dickson, the state Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party, Mr Godspower Keku, member of the State House of Assembly, Hon. Salo Adikumo, the Chaplain, King of Glory Chapel, Government House, Yenagoa Bishop Dotimi Egbegi and the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Grassroots Mobilization, Mr Victor Okubonanabo, in attendance.