Former Kwara Governor, Dr. Bukola Saraki, has described the victory of the All Progressives Congress over the Peoples Democratic Party in the state as the beginning of a new dawn in Kwara and Nigeria.

Saraki made the remark in reaction to the victory of the APC and its presidential candidate, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari in last Saturday's election in Kwara. Saraki, who was also re-elected to represent Kwara Central Senatorial District, lauded the people of the state for standing by him and his party during the election.

The former governor said that with the victory, it was clear that the people of Kwara had spoken loud and clear with their votes through the ballot box. They have demonstrated their unflinching commitment to democracy and the progress of Kwara State in particular and Nigeria as a whole.

Saraki assured that on the part of the party, it would continue to stand on the side of the people and deliver the best to them to justify the abiding faith they have in the party and its candidates.

He said: "We will continue to put in our best in order to ensure further social, economic and infrastructural development to all parts of Kwara State. We will continue to fight for what is in the best interest of Kwara and Nigeria.

"We have consistently shown that we feel the pain of the masses. We have stayed true and committed to their cause. We share their dreams and aspirations. We will therefore remain steadfast in our quest of building the Kwara they deserve.

"The people have clearly opted for focused, dependable and reliable leadership and a rejection of dying minute politicians.

"I will give effect to my renewed mandate in the Senate by ensuring that I continue to address those issues that will bring about progress and development to my primary constituents and Nigeria at large.

I promise to put in more efforts to address key issues such as youth employment, poverty, education, health and the environment. I will also continue to advocate for legislations that will strengthen our institutions so as to eradicate corruption, misuse and abuse of office.

"We must chart a new course for Nigeria. All hands must be on deck to return our great country to the former place of pride in the comity of nations.

"The wind of change that is blowing across the country is strong enough to keep the hope of a new and better Nigeria alive. Once again, I thank you all for giving me the opportunity to serve you. Let us join hands to build a better and more secure Nigeria together," Saraki said.