2015 Election: US Rekindles Interest in Niger Delta

As momentum gathers for the upcoming 2015 general election in Nigeria, the United States of America says it has rekindled its interest in the Niger Delta region.
Speaking during a one-day official visit the Bayelsa State Government House, Yenogoa, the US consular General, Mr. Jeffrey Hawkins said his country would focus more on the region for being the economic nerve centre of Nigeria.
He stated: "As we move closer to the big show in 2015 i.e. the general election, we definitely want to be in touch with you. The United States is really studying to focus on the Niger Delta again in a lot of ways that will be very positive. I really want to get your advice on our engagements in the Niger Delta on our efforts to support what government is doing.
"We are very interested in supporting a dialogue between the people of this region who are so important for the future of this country and the leadership of the region."
According to the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Bayelsa State, Daniel Iworiso-Markson, Governor Seriake Dickson expressed his administration’s preparedness to partner with the United States in the areas of security, environment and other issues militating against the development of the state.
Lauding the efforts of the United States in re-establishing and deepening its relationship with Nigeria, Dickson recalled the reception of a business delegation from the state of Houston in the United States and said he looked forward to a more mutually beneficial relationship with the US.