President Goodluck Jonathan Tuesday formally declared to seek re-election in 2015 on the platform of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Addressing a mammoth crowd at the Eagles Square, Abuja, revenue of the declaration, the President said he had sought the face of God before accepting to run. He declared:
“Therefore, after seeking the face of God, in quiet reflection with my family and having listened to the call of our people nationwide to run, I, Goodluck Ebele Azikiwe Jonathan, have accepted to re-present myself, on the platform of the Peoples’ Democratic Party, for re-election as the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, in the 2015 general elections”.
The President enumerated the achievements of his administration especially in transforming the critical sectors such as agriculture, transportation, power, education as well as creation of jobs through the YouWin programme.
According to him, the transformation of the agriculture sector through the introduction of the e-wallet for purchase of fertilizers has significantly reduced corrupt practices in that sector.
He also expressed optimism that with the ongoing efforts in encouraging youth to take to agriculture, Nigeria will soon become net exporter of rice
While underscoring the importance of education in the development of a nation, Jonathan again announced that his administration has created additional 14 Universities, saying “Under my watch, every Nigerian state has a Federal University,”
President Jonathan also spoke about the recent containment of the deadly Ebola Virus Disease (EVD), which was imported into the country on July 20, by a Liberian/American Patrick Sawyer.
He attributed the containment to cooperation between the federal government and State governments (Lagos and Rivers). Therefore, he promised not to handover polio to another government.
The President thanked the leadership and members of the ruling PDP as well as all Nigerians for the confidence reposed in him.
On the security challenge, Jonathan observed a minute silence for the students of Government Science Secondary School, Yobe, that were killed on Monday morning, vowing to defeat the insurgents and to rescue the over 200 Chibok girls abducted by the Boko Haram over six months ago.
In his brief remarks before inviting Jonathan to the podium, Vice President Namadi Sambo, pledged continued loyalty, saying the transformation agenda has been been fruitful.
Speaking earlier on behalf of the PDP Governors, Godswil Akpabio of Akwa Ibom, said the governors would work hard to ensure than PDP control at least 29 States come 2015.
He said the Governors are satisfied with Jonathan’s transformation agenda, which has truly transformed the critical sectors.
Akpabio noted that the road to victory in 2015 will be rough but expressed optimism that Jonathan will emerge victorious.
“PDP governors are saying ‘carry go, carry go, carry go’, we know that the route to 2015 is not going to be very smooth,” but said victory would be theirs.
On the security challenge, Akpabio urged Jonathan not to be intimidated by insurgency, saying “those who are behind you are more than those that are against you”.
Also speaking on behalf of the National Assembly, Senate President David Mark said the legislators are pleased with the present administration’s achievements so far, saying there was need for continuity.
“We want a leader that is reliable and you have demonstrated that you are reliable,” the Senate President said adding that Jonathan’s endorsement as PDP sole candidate “Is because we trust that you will deliver the dividends of democracy”.
The event was attended by party chieftains, members of the National Assembly, top government functionaries and well-wishers.
