By Myke Uzendu
National Leader of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, has reaffirmed his commitment to multi-party democracy and called on political actors to ensure a peaceful and inclusive political environment ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Dickson spoke on Thursday when the management of Leadership Newspaper, led by its Vice Chairman, Michael Okpere, paid a formal visit to his Abuja residence to present him with the official notification of his selection as the Leadership Politician of the Year 2026.
The newspaper had earlier announced Dickson as the recipient of the award, citing his record of public service, political leadership and role in the emergence of the NDC as a new opposition platform.
Receiving the delegation, the former Bayelsa State governor expressed appreciation to the board and management of Leadership Newspaper for the recognition, particularly the manner in which the selection was conducted.
Dickson said neither he nor members of his political team had prior knowledge of his nomination, adding that he was surprised when the announcement was made public.
He commended the newspaper for what he described as the integrity and independence of the award process.
According to him, the honour should not be viewed as a personal achievement but as recognition of the collective efforts of NDC leaders, members and supporters across the country.
Dickson dedicated the award to party officials and members at all levels, including those at the local government and ward levels, whom he credited with making sacrifices for the growth of the party.
He also dedicated the honour to Nigerians at home and abroad who, he said, had embraced the vision of the NDC and its commitment to expanding Nigeria’s democratic space.
