Lagos State Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has hailed Dr. Dakuku Peterside, former Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, on the occasion of his 50th birthday.
Sanwo-Olu, in a letter titled, “Congratulatory Message for Dr. Dakuku Peterside”, which he personally signed, on Wednesday, said the former NIMASA DG leaves a “progressively indelible mark” wherever he goes. He also described him as one of the most outstanding men to emerge out of Rivers State.
According to Gov. Sanwo-Olu, who also said he had followed Peterside’s remarkable career and conribution to the growth of the Niger Delta and Nigeria, the immediate NIMASA DG is always ready to give his best.
“In personal and professional things, you are always ready to give your best as long as it is for the greater good”, the governor of Nigeria’s wealthiest state told Peterside, adding, “You are a wonderful friend and brother, a brilliant administrator, astute politician, and a competent leadership expert. I admire your dedication to the socio-economic development of Nigeria, your passion for service and your desire to see others grow.”
Sanwo-Olu continued in the message, “You have unwaveringly shown your commitment to maritime security and I am positive that your footprints will never be erased at the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, where, in addition to your numerous achievements, you vigorously advocated for the implementation of Nigeria’s Cabotage Act.
“You leave a progressively indelible mark everywhere you go — your contributions at the House of Representatives will never be forgotten, as your time there was characterised by diligence, commitment to good governance as well as love and empathy for others.
“You have remained consistent over the years, ever pushing for the necessary reforms in the oil and gas sector and the maritime industry. I am proud to call you a distinguished public servant and an avid reformer.
Peterside, who was born on December 31, 1970, was elected as a member of House of Representatives where he represented the Andoni-Opobo/Nkoro Federal Constituency from 2011 to 2015. He served as the Honourable Commissioner for Works in Rivers State from 2007 to 2010 having earlier served as Chairman of Opobo/Nkoro local government.
President Muhammadu Buhari appointed Peterside in 2016 to head the maritime agency, an assignment he meritoriously ended on March 10, 2020.
The Lagos governor described him as “a wonderful friend, brother, brillant administrator and an astute politician”, adding that he admires his dedication towards Nigeria’s development.
“As you celebrate this milestone, I am hopeful that your life will remain impactful, inspirational and dedicated to public service. lt is my prayer that you continue to enjoy good health and the Grace of God. May the next 50 years be more fulfilling and productive.
