Former Minister of State for Petroleum, Chief Timipre Sylva, has called on political leaders to prioritize giving back to society.
The former Bayelsa State Governor made this appeal during the celebration of his 61st birthday at his country home in Okpoama, Brass Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.
Chuef Sylva also emphasised the need for leaders to be intentional about giving back to their communities, particularly in rural areas where resources are scarce.
He further noted that if leaders shy away from their communities, nobody would come to support the people, and they would be abandoned.
Sylva chose to celebrate his birthday in his community for the first time, highlighting his commitment to giving back.
According to him, “If people shy away from their communities, nobody would come, and the people would be abandoned. Who else would come here if I don’t come here?
“These are my people. I was born among them. I think it is best to come back to my people to celebrate among them. Also, the situation of this place is very unique. This place is the end of Nigeria, so we have to be intentional in coming here. If not, nobody would be here”, he said.
He also added, “And of course, it is a rural settlement, and there are no jobs. If we are intentional about giving back to our community, then these people will be abandoned. That is why I chose to come here. If I don’t come, nobody will come.
“I am happy I am among my people. The kind of reception I receive, I am proud of it. It is also some sort of encouragement for me. Because if you are doing something and the people appreciate it, it would encourage you to do more.’’ Sylva said.
He expressed pride in the reception he received from his people, noting that it encourages him to do more for the community.
Sylva’s wife, Mrs. Alayingi Sylva, also expressed delight with the warm reception accorded to them by the community.
She attributed the excitement to the love the people have for her husband and called on the younger generation to emulate the values of loyalty, steadfastness, and commitment that have driven her husband’s success.
On his part, Dr. Kojo Sam, Managing Director of Kojo Sam Logistics and Labrador Security Services, praised Sylva for his contributions to society.
He described Sylva as a leader who has touched lives, ‘saying, “He is humble, and willing to listen to people.”
Sam noted that Sylva’s patience and ability to feel the pain of others made him a remarkable leader worthy of celebration.
