Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike has called for what he described as true federalism where all federating units are allowed to develop in line with their potentials and resources.
The governor emphasised that the demand for true federalism simply means that Rivers people believe in a united Nigeria, where no section is denied the control of her resources.
The governor, who spoke at the Government House Port Harcourt on Tuesday night when the Rivers State Government hosted the Ambassador of the United States of America to Nigeria, Mr William Symington to a State Banquet, also called on the government of the United States of America to set up a Visa Office in Port Harcourt to cater for the Southsouth and Southeast.
He said: “We are clamouring for true federalism. When you talk true federalism, they think you don’t want to be part of the country. We talk about true federalism as practiced in America. A true presidential system where all the Federating units will be allowed to enjoy their resources and contribute to the centre.
“That means we believe that there must be a country called Nigeria. All of us will work together for the unity of the country”.
He explained that Rivers people seek equity, fairness and justice in the country, stating that the right framework must be established to ensure that all states excel at their pace.
On the request for the United States Government to set up a Visa Office in Port Harcourt, Governor Wike said the visa will resolve the issue of equity and justice as the Abuja office serves the north and Lagos office serves the South West.
He assured that the American Ambassador that the state is safe for business, pledging that his administration will partner with investors, as the right environment has already been created.
“Forget about the media propaganda. This state is an opposition state . Therefore, don’t expect them to say it is the best. But, we are the best state. We are doing everything to ensure that investors do profitable business under the ambit of the law”, Governor Wike said.
Symington commended Nigerians for the unity of the country.
He said Nigeria is a great country because of the contributions of Nigerians.
“Nigeria will be great and I expect a super power and a super partner “, he said.
The Ambassador of the United States of America to Nigeria was accompanied by the Consul General , John Bray.