“We’ll Turn Bayelsa State into a Top 5 Economy in Africa”… Economic Adviser

Press Release                                 
“We’ll turn Bayelsa State into a top 5 Economy in Africa”… Economic Adviser

Governor Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa State has again reiterated his unflinching resolve to enhance the fortunes of the state by embarking on big ticket investments and leveraging state owned entities to drive the restoration agenda.

The Chief Economic Adviser to the Governor, Mr Tamunoye Alazigha disclosed this in Yenagoa today in a strategy meeting with Managing Directors of state owned companies.

Mr Alazigha who is also the Deputy Managing Director of Bayelsa Development and Investment Corporation assured that a new era of efficient resource use and value addition had dawned in the state with the coming on stream of the corporation.

He said the meeting with the companies was informed largely by the crying need to leverage these assets to reposition the state. “The state needs to generate more revenue and these revenues in turn needs to be optimal deployed to meet the needs of citizens. And this is what Governor Dickson is doing; bringing about socio-economic and infrastructural transformation to address our key developmental challenges,” he enthused

He noted that the BDIC was taking steps to collaborate with the companies in developing key sectors of the economy but was, however, quick to emphasize that it was expedient to start small and grow into a behemoth rather than taking up more than could be handled at the formative stages of any project.

He recounted that most business started small and focused on areas where they had comparative advantage.He said Bayelsa State has comparative advantages in a whole lot of sectors including tourism, Oil and Gas and Maritime but hinted that lack of proper harnessing of these resources had meant that revenues had been lost in the past.

Mr Alazigha asserted that the whole idea of vesting assets in the corporation was, therefore, to show value by embarking on biggest impact projects with lowest cost and highest profit margins, noting however, that for each unit of returns, “we have to measure the risk and take steps to mitigate it”“The people in the state, the living conditions and quality of life generally is of very great concern to the Governor.

The BDIC is the strategic enabler to grow the wealth of Bayelsans so that on the whole we can say with a certain degree of exactitude that life in Bayelsa is far better than what used to be. And this is what drives our passion to deliver the goods. We are extremely committed to touch lives positively.”

According to him, the era when the entities were mere conduit pipes through which monies were siphoned by previous administrations was over, adding that going forward, the administration of Gov Seriake Dickson through the BDIC would liase with the various heads to build creative capital that would eventually generate financial capital and add value to the state.

Earlier, the Managing Directors of the Companies had enumerated several challenges assailing them principal of which was the lack of take -off capital, huge outstanding liabilities and, of course, funding generally.Responding, the Deputy Managing Director charged the directors to be more proactive in their strategies in order to circumvent and surmount the challenges by constantly devising means of generating income.Under the new arrangement, the Corporation is to serve as a holding company for subsidiary entities.

The strategy meeting was convened by the BDIC to examine the status of the companies with a view to enabling it take strategic action plans aimed at repositioning the companies for efficient production and quality service delivery.

It had in attendance, the Managing Directors of Bayelsa Airlines, Cpt. Henry Ungbuku, Bayelsa Hotels and Tourism Development Company, Dr. Bribena who was represented by Head of Admin, Mr. Samuel Ikiba, Bayelsa Property and Investment Company, Mr. Azana Patrick Azazi and Mr. Morris Walson, a Board Member of Bayelsa Farms.

 It will be recalled that Bayelsa is 6.6% of Nigeria’s economy, the fourth largest, 3rd largest oil producer and 7th largest fish basket.   However, 92 % of its 2million population reside in the rural areas, underscoring the imperatives for rural infrastructural development.What is more, its GSP of N2.4 trillion or $18.5bn is large enough to attract the right kind of investors to catalyze development, as it is larger than the national and combined GDP of Guinea Bissau, Gambia, Cape Verde and Liberia.

Interestingly, among the 15 ECOWAS nations, only Ghana and Cote’d Voire have national GDPs larger than Bayelsa’s GSP.This clearly shows that the state occupies a key position in the emerging political economy of Africa and that the objective to translate it to a top 5 economy in Africa is not just political grandstanding or hocus pocus but is indeed, achievable if round pegs are put in round holes.

But this potential has been seriously threatened by the structural imbalances which require oil revenue (96% of GSP) to be remitted to the central government and distributed based on some whimsical fiscal parameters that put the state at a disadvantaged position.

And this is why the Governor sought for and got a seasoned investment banker like Tamunoye Alazigha who has in his kitty over 19 years of experience in financial management at JP Morgan Chase, US Trust Bank of America, and BGL to pilot the affairs of the corporation.

Indeed, the state has several investment potentials waiting to be harnessed in tourism and hospitality, agriculture, aquaculture, oil and Gas, power, mineral deposits and infrastructure.

And the challenge in the form of lack of indigenous skilled manpower and harsh geographical terrain, according to the Chief Economic Adviser, only represent opportunities for growth and investment.But the absence of a focused, visionary, ambitious and charismatic leadership in the past has meant that over the years these potentials had been left largely untapped.

Today, however, a new Bayelsa is emerging. The story is beginning to be different.Already, the BDIC has been instrumental in jumpstarting and leapfrogging the economy by attracting core investors into critical sectors like hospitality and tourism, agriculture and aviation, health and energy to mention but a few.  

Signed:  Famous Obebi Famous
Special Assistant (Media) to the Chief Economic Adviser 

PDP DETERMINES NATION’S STABILITY, AS DICKSON URGES MEMBERS TO CLOSE RANKS

The Bayelsa State Governor and the Chairman of the newly inaugurated Chairman of the Peoples’ Democratic Party,PDP Reconciliation Committee, Hon. Seriake Dickson says the stability of the Country depends on the stability of the PDP.

This, according to him is as a result of the Party’s spread and its unbroken hold on power in the last 14 years, noting that, the party remains the strongest centripetal force that holds the diverse Country together irrespective of the threat to its very existence as an indivisible country.

Making this known in his acceptance speech as the Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Dickson stressed the need for members of the Party to put aside their differences and forge a common front, adding that the interest of the nation should be of paramount interest in the minds of people, both in the political and non- political fields.

Noting the relevance of the PDP in the nation’s  polity, the Governor said, it now becomes imperative for its members to work together as a team to enhance the success of the party in future elections.According to him, ‘‘at no time in our history has our nation’s unity come under sustained and several attacks as it is now.

Mr. Chairman instead of building a political platform for the unity and development of the Country, the way our party is doing, the centrifugal forces are exploiting our diversity to expand the attacks and even making political capital out of them.‘‘Let me stress here that the PDP is the only political platform from pre-independence till date that has made it possible for a so called minority to win presidential ticket and general election as President.‘‘

A large platform like the PDP cannot be devoid of several tendencies, conflict of interest and all manner of crises. But as democrats, we must evolve ways of appreciating them and resolving crises within the party without stifling people. I think this is what you have done by setting up reconciliation committee’’

Calling on the members to support the reconciliatory efforts of the various committees set up by the leadership of the Party, the Governor disclosed that the mandate of his committee is to provide the template that will make the ruling party organize credible primaries and select candidates for elections.Urging the members to take advantage of the Committee, Hon. Dickson said, ‘it is the Party, and only the Party that wins election; no individual has the capacity to single handedly win an election. To us, the Party is like a race horse, anybody can ride once it is strong’

Daniel Iworiso-Markson                                                                                                           
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Bayelsa State 
25/07/2013

GOV. DICKSON TO OPEN OFFICE TO COLLATE AND HARMONISE PROJECTS BY AGENCIES/COMPANIES, ALSO TO CHECK DUPLICATION OF PROJECTS

GOV. DICKSON TO OPEN OFFICE TO COLLATE AND HARMONISE PROJECTS BY AGENCIES/COMPANIES, ALSO TO CHECK DUPLICATION OF PROJECTS

  A Partnership Office is to be established soon in Bayelsa State to collate and harmonize all development needs of communities in the State. When established, it will also serve as a one stop office to equally authenticate and harmonize all development efforts being undertaken by interventionist agencies as well as check the duplication of projects.

 Governor Seriake Dickson dropped the hint during a tripartite meeting between the state government, Shell Petroleum Development Company, SPDC and Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC on the construction of the Ogbia and Nembe road project. “I like to thank SPDC and NDDC, which are our development partners for their initiative and investments over the years, particularly on this road and all the interventionist projects that are going on.

In this state we are establishing the Partnership Office and once it is functional, it will be a one stop office that will collate and harmonise all development needs of our communities and various efforts by the interventionist agencies they are handling.” When functional, the Governor explained that, all interventionist agencies would liaise directly with the partnership office and communities to streamline their activities. 

In his words: “This meeting has been summoned because we want to know the state of affairs of the Ogbia/Nembe road. I campaigned on the need to invest in critical infrastructure in this state and we are delivering on that”  Governor Dickson explained that the meeting was convened for representatives of the companies involved in the execution of the Ogbia/Nembe road project to brief him on the position of the road to enable government intervene where necessary to ensure that the project is delivered on schedule. 

 He stressed that it was necessary to move on to the next phase of the road project, which he described as the most expensive and challenging in order to ensure completion of the project within the stipulated time frame. 

While, pointing out that construction work was already ongoing on two senatorial roads, expressed concern over the delay of work on the Nembe-Brass road, stressing that, his administration was desirous of opening up the state to boost socio-economic activities. “We have the objective of hitting the Atlantic Ocean on three main fronts.

The west through Ekeremor and Agge; that job is going on, the central through Yenagoa-Oporoma-Koluama-Ukubie, work is going on seriously as we speak but then our plans to get to the Atlantic in Brass cannot move further if we are not sure of a realistic time frame for the completion of the road already started from Ogbia to Nembe because the road we want to take is from Nembe to Brass. But even if that road is started and finished, it will be of no effect unless we first ensure that we can get to Nembe and that is why that project is very important to us.

 In an interview with government house correspondents shortly after the meeting, Secretary to the state government, Prof. Edmund Alison Oguru, said the issues responsible for the delay on the project were discussed as well as ways and means to address the challenges. 

Also in his remarks, Chairman of the Directorate of Project Monitoring and Evaluation, Chief Walter Feghabo-Amain said the meeting deliberated on issues of compensation and local content employment. Chief Feghabo-Amain who doubles as chairman of the Project Monitoring Committee of the Ogbia/Nembe road noted that, compensation for those whose farms were affected by the project and the issue of employment for communities situated along the road would be addressed. 

In their separate interviews, representatives of SPDC, Mr. Evans Krukrubo, NDDC, Mr. Edi Orubo and the Project Manager of SETRACO, Senaka Rupanett, stated that the partners involved in the execution of the road have expressed commitment to the completion of the project in 2015.

Mr. Krukrubo said the SPDC was funding the project by 70% while the commissioner on the board of the NDDC, Mr. Orubo observed that the meeting would go a long way in improving the performance level of the commission as outstanding payments to it would be sorted out in the next one week.       

Daniel Iworiso-Markson
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Bayelsa State
25/07/2013

BAYELSA SIGNS MOU WITH 9 FIRMS UNDER PPP FRAMEWORK TO ACHIEVE A PRIVATE SECTOR DRIVEN ECONOMY

 BAYELSA SIGNS MOU WITH 9 FIRMS UNDER PPP FRAMEWORK TO ACHIEVE A PRIVATE SECTOR DRIVEN ECONOMY 

 Bayelsa State Government has signed a memorandum of Understanding with nine companies under the public private partnership (PPP) framework to accelerate its investment drive. 

The companies are Lagray Chemicals, USA, for the development of pharmaceutical products, DST Petroleum Ltd, for the establishment of a fertilizer plant in Brass, Octopol Energy Ltd for gas conversion and Goshen Treasures Ltd for the development of the Bayelsa Plastic Industry. 

Others are, KABLETECH Nigeria Ltd- manufacturing of electricity cables, Ugboduma and Sons Ltd-development of tourism city, Alyn Global Services Ltd, building of aquarium facility and Clinotech Tunkey Management, Canada for the production of quarry and other concrete works.  

 Speaking at the signing of the agreements, Governor Seriake Dickson described the event as a step forward in the realization of the present administration’s vision to turn around the state’s economy to a private sector driven one rather than a private dominated economy. 

Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Edmund Alison Oguru, the Bayelsa State Chief Executive noted that, the areas government intends to focus on include, oil and gas, agriculture, electricity and development of infrastructure to create employment and income to grow an economy that would be sustainable beyond oil and gas. 

To actualize this dream, he expressed government’s preparedness to collaborate with the private sector, stating that what the state needed most were investment partners and not just contractors.

 Governor Dickson assured the investors that Government will continue to provide an investment friendly climate as evidenced in the current efforts being made to enthrone an enduring security.

 In his words:” When we came in, we had some experiences; one of which is that over the years we have had instances where investors came into this state and promised to spend their own money but the government ended up footing the bills. What I will like to therefore caution is that the Bayelsa State of the present administration really wants not just contractors but development partners because of one or two bitter experiences.

 “Those of you who have signed these memoranda of understanding should try as much as possible to be true development partners and not just contractors. On our own part, we want to assure you that we will create the enabling environment to enable you deliver on these investment proposals.”

 The state Commissioner for Trade and Investment, Mr. Ayakeme Massah and Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Chief Francis Egele supervised the signing of the agreements. 

In their separate remarks, representatives of the various firms, commended the state government for opening a window of opportunity for them, noting that the PPP arrangement would go a long way in creating skills, jobs and economic prosperity. 

Representative of Lagray, Dr. Alexandra Graham said her organization would position the state to supply most of the essential medicine needs in a sustainable manner. 

Also, Dr. Bina Avery who stood in for the Goshen Treasure Ltd, said his company was partnering with technical experts from Czech Republic to revamp the state-owned Plastic Company.

 According to him, Goshen Treasures Ltd is poised to establish a polymer science institute to train Bayelsans on plastic making, adding that talks are underway on the equity share ownership.

 Daniel Iworiso-Markson
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Bayelsa State
25/07/2013

AS BAYELSA GOVT PLANS WELFARE SCHEME FOR PHYSICALLY CHALLENGED, GOV DICKSON WARNS AGAINST ANY BREACH OF THE PEACE

In keeping with its policy of supporting the weak and vulnerable, Governor Seriake Dickson has set up a committee headed by the State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development to authenticate the number of physically challenged people in the State.

According to a Government House statement, the move is aimed at properly establishing the real identities of the number of physically challenged persons in state, particularly the need to establish how many of them are Bayelsans, the local government and communities that they hail from and the families they belong to.

This is with a view to ensuring that they are properly captured within existing frameworks already established by Government through the setting up of a welfare scheme instituted to cater for the aged and vulnerable in our midst.

 Accordingly, physically challenged persons in the state who must be indigenes of Bayelsa State will soon be called upon by the committee set up by Government to register their names and provide other relevant details to enable them benefit from Government support going forward.This move by Government became expedient in line with current realities and the need to give those properly authenticated and recommended by the committee as genuine and deserving of government support a greater sense of belonging.

It stated that, while government remains committed to the restoration of the lost glory of the State, it warned the physically challenged to be law abiding, as Government will not tolerate any acts of lawlessness in any part of the State, stressing that, it will apply the full weight of the law on any individual or group that attempts to take the laws into its hands.

The statement further advised the physically challenged and other residents of the State not to allow themselves to be used by those who do not mean well for the state to cause a breakdown of law and order as well as create unnecessary disaffection amongst the people of the State.

It also called for the massive support, encouragement, understanding and prayers of the people to ensure that the programmes and policies of government do not suffer any setbacks. 

Daniel Iworiso-Markson
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Bayelsa State
In keeping with its policy of supporting the weak and vulnerable, Governor Seriake Dickson has set up a committee headed by the State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development to authenticate the number of physically challenged people in the State.

According to a Government House statement, the move is aimed at properly establishing the real identities of the number of physically challenged persons in state, particularly the need to establish how many of them are Bayelsans, the local government and communities that they hail from and the families they belong to.

This is with a view to ensuring that they are properly captured within existing frameworks already established by Government through the setting up of a welfare scheme instituted to cater for the aged and vulnerable in our midst.

 Accordingly, physically challenged persons in the state who must be indigenes of Bayelsa State will soon be called upon by the committee set up by Government to register their names and provide other relevant details to enable them benefit from Government support going forward.This move by Government became expedient in line with current realities and the need to give those properly authenticated and recommended by the committee as genuine and deserving of government support a greater sense of belonging.

It stated that, while government remains committed to the restoration of the lost glory of the State, it warned the physically challenged to be law abiding, as Government will not tolerate any acts of lawlessness in any part of the State, stressing that, it will apply the full weight of the law on any individual or group that attempts to take the laws into its hands.

The statement further advised the physically challenged and other residents of the State not to allow themselves to be used by those who do not mean well for the state to cause a breakdown of law and order as well as create unnecessary disaffection amongst the people of the State.

It also called for the massive support, encouragement, understanding and prayers of the people to ensure that the programmes and policies of government do not suffer any setbacks. 

Daniel Iworiso-Markson
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Bayelsa State

GOV. DICKSON BERATES OIL COMPANIES OVER NON-COMPLIANCE WITH BEST PRACTICES

GOV. DICKSON BERATES OIL COMPANIES OVER NON-COMPLIANCE WITH BEST PRACTICES

Bayelsa State Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson has lent his voice in condemning oil producing companies for not conforming to international standards and best practices in their operations in the Niger Delta.

The Governor, who spoke in Yenagoa when the Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Nigeria, Ambassador Bert Ronhaar paid him a courtesy call, observed that the application of double standards by multinational oil companies contributes significantly to the impoverishment of the environment and people of the region.

Hon. Dickson lamented the brazen manner resources of the Niger Delta are expropriated, pointing out that the level of environmental degradation occasioned by the operations of IOCs places the region on a precarious situation.

According to the Governor, the ecosystem and livelihood of people in the Niger Delta have been negatively impacted upon as a result of oil exploration and exploitation activities over the years.Going down memory lane, Hon Dickson noted that the Royal Dutch Shell Petroleum Company struck oil in commercial quantities at Oloibiri in Bayelsa State in 1956, but is today bereft of any meaningful development.“We have major issues of how to combat flooding, erosion of our communities and damaged ecosystem. 

 There are also frightening scientific predictions that if urgent steps are not taken, most of the communities in the Niger Delta will be wiped away in the next couple of years.“There is now a disconnect arising from the decades of what is perceived to be nonchalant attitude by the international oil companies.  

The communities now see the operating companies as buccaneers who do not care about them and their conditions. Their (IOCs) concern is only the oil and not the people’s well-being.  The activities here are such that you have double standards in terms of adherence to environmental rules, regulations and procedures” he said.

Governor Dickson, who described the environment as the common heritage of mankind, vowed that his administration would not hesitate in joining forces with other stakeholders in championing the need for environmental rights and justice in the country.According to him, “The environment has to be respected in the Niger Delta the same way it is protected and preserved in Europe and America; an oil spill is an oil spill wherever it occurs, whether it is in the Niger Delta or in the Gulf of Mexico”. 

While thanking the visiting Ambassador for his efforts in deepening diplomatic relations between Nigeria and the kingdom of the Netherlands, Hon. Dickson urged the envoy to prevail on oil companies particularly Shell to adhere to international operational standards.

He also called on the Ambassador to nominate credible consultants that could work with the government in the designing and construction of a sustainable drainage system that would enable the state overcome its flooding challenges.

Earlier in his remarks, the Ambassador of the Netherlands to Nigeria, Ambassador Bert Ronhaar said he was in the state to discuss possible areas of collaboration that will strengthen bilateral ties between his country and the state.

Describing Bayelsa as a state that share a lot of similarities with Netherlands, the Ambassador enjoined people of the state not to see water as an enemy, stressing that there is so much to gain from it if properly harnessed.

Ambassador Ronhaar pledged his country’s readiness to partner with the state government by bringing in Dutch technocrats who possess the much needed technical expertise to combat the problem of flooding, erosion and other environmental challenges. 

Daniel Iworiso-Markson
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Bayelsa State
24/07/2013

BAYELSA PROPOSED JUDICIAL COMMISSION OF INQUIRY

BAYELSA PROPOSED JUDICIAL COMMISSION OF INQUIRY 

We will not join issues with a drowning man.Governor Dickson’s competence is very much evident for all to see. The good people of Bayelsa State can tell the difference between night and day.

The decision of the State government to set up a judicial panel of enquiry to probe the backlog of unpaid pensions and gratuities is premised on the need to address the deep seated rot and systematic failure perpetrated by some disgruntled civil servants with the active collaboration of some political leaders.These persons working as syndicates have over the years siphoned N5billion meant for the payment of pensioners in the State.

Concerned about the plight of these pensioners, Governor Henry Seriake Dickson since coming into office has paid N1billion to the Pensioners in his efforts to clear the backlog.While, we are working hard to clear the backlog, the same syndicates, instead of hiding their faces in shame, have chosen to embark on a campaign of calumny and propaganda against the Government by inciting some of the pensioners to embark on street protest.

To this end, government decided to set up the Judicial Commission of Inquiry to ascertain why pensioners were owed pension and gratuities for the past five years and the public servants that have subjected our senior citizens to untold hardship.

It is equally laughable that some people who may have perpetrated the scam are questioning why Governor Dickson limited the period of the investigation to five years.

Those who were responsible for the payment of pension and gratuities during the period should be ready to provide answers as to why civil servants/ public servants who are supposed to be enjoying their retirement with full benefits are being subjected to untold misery by fellow human beings.

The truth is that Governor Dickson decided to limit the commission to the last five years because civil servants have never had it so bad before this period. We want to assure Bayelsans and Nigerians as a whole that the commission is not on a witch haunting mission but on a fact finding one.  

Government wishes to use this opportunity to call on all and sundry to be weary of the antics of mischief makers and failed politicians, who would want to use them to derail the existing peace and tranquility in the State just to achieve their selfish motives. 

Daniel Iworiso-Markson
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Bayelsa State

UNESCO APPROVES BAYELSA AS HOST OF MAIDEN UNDER WATER COMMITTEE CONFERENCE AS MBGN ENDS IN GRAND STYLE

21/07/2013
UNESCO APPROVES BAYELSA AS HOST OF MAIDEN UNDER WATER COMMITTEE CONFERENCE AS MBGN ENDS IN GRAND STYLE

Miss Anna Ebiere Banner has emerged winner of the 26 th edition of the Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria (MBGN) Pageant, which held at the weekend in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital.

By this victory, Ebiere Banner, who represented Bayelsa State at the event, has bagged an appointment as Honorary Special Assistant on Culture and Tourism to Governor Seriake Dickson as well as Cultural Ambassador of Bayelsa.

First runner up went to Miss Imo,Stephanie Okwu, Miss Adamawa, Powede Lawrence clinched the second runner-up position while Miss Kaduna, Enoma Agbonifo emerged third runner-up and Miss Abuja, Melissa Devidal took the fourth runner-up honour.

In other categories of the MBGN pageant, Miss Photogenic went to Miss Kano, Blessing Obi, Miss Akwa Ibom,Fontanne Bassey emerged winner of Miss Amity, Miss Bayelsa, Ebiere Banner won Miss Costume and Miss Ogun, Tiamiyu Aderonke got Miss Charismatic.

Speaking at the ceremony, President Goodluck Jonathan said the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation, UNESCO has approved Bayelsa as host for the maiden edition of the organization’s under water committee conference taking place on the 24 th of September 2013.

Represented by the Minister of Culture and Tourism, High Chief Edem Duke, the President also announced that over 7,000 Nigerians would converge in Yenagoa for the Nigeria Festival for Arts and Culture, NIFEST scheduled to hold from the 15 th to 25 th of September, this year.

He commended Governor Seriake Dickson for his significant contributions towards the development of the tourism sub sector, describing him as a great icon of tourism.

Earlier in his remarks, Governor Dickson, noted that the hosting of beauty pageants in the state would serve as a veritable platform to boost tourism and other socio-economic activities in the state.

According to the Governor, Bayelsa will play host to beauty pageants of international scale quarterly pointing out that the MBGN has helped to espouse the true ideals of the African woman.

He said government would soon unveil the state’s tourism calendar to the public and expressed commitment to hosting the Miss Centenary Beauty Pageant expected to take place in Bayelsa in September this year.

Speaking later at the post pageant dinner, the state Deputy Governor Retired Rear Admiral Gboribigha John Jonah, commended the Chairman of Siverbird Group, Mr. Ben Murray Bruce and members of the organization for making Bayelsa proud at the international level.

Chairman of the Silverbird Group, Mr. Ben Murray Bruce expressed gratitude to the state government for partnering with the organization for showcasing true beauty of young and promising Nigerian women to the outside world as the event was being watched on twitter and other social media across the globe.

Mr. Bruce said over the years the pageant has brought hope and transformed the lives of not only the beauty queens but also that of their families.

He cited Miss Agbani Darego from Rivers State who emerged Miss World and made her family and country proud by her achievement.

Daniel Iworiso-Markson
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Bayelsa State

BAYELSA GOVT POSTS N25.3BN BALANCE AT THE END OF JUNE …..AS GOV DICKSON EXPRESSES CONCERN OVER RECURRENT EXPENDITURE

19/07/2013
BAYELSA GOVT POSTS N25.3BN BALANCE AT THE END OF JUNE …..AS GOV DICKSON EXPRESSES CONCERN OVER RECURRENT EXPENDITURE

Bayelsa state Government posted the sum of N25.3 billion as balance as at the end of June, 2013. This includes the balance from the monthly allocation from Federation Account for the month of June, SURE-P of N10.8bn, and balance after deduction of recurrent and capital expenditure which stood at N13.5bn.

Disclosing this during the presentation of the 14 th edition of the Monthly Transparency press briefing in Yenagoa, Governor Seriake Dickson said the total inflow for last month amounted to N19.1 billion comprising statutory allocation of N2.6 billion, derivation N9.4 billion and Augmentation N5.02 billion. Other components of the inflow, according to the Governor include, subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment Programme (SURE-P), N1.1 billion; VAT N811 million with an NNPC refund of N233m.

Hon. Dickson said total FAAC deductions for the period which included bond, foreign loans, refund on overpayment and commercial agricultural credit scheme amounted to N1.9 billion bringing the Net Inflow from FAAC to N17.2 billion.

Giving further insight into the financial position of the state, the Bayelsa State Governor announced a total outflow of N10.8 billion. Out of this amount, he said Civil Servants salaries gulped over N4 billion, salaries of political appointees – N555 million, bank loan repayment – N2.4 billion and monthly overhead payment – N1.2 billion. The outflows also comprised monthly standing approvals of N316 million, transfer to Gratuity Account N250 million with cost for collection of internally generated revenue (IGR) put at N32 million.

Governor Dickson posted N645 million as IGR receipt for the month of May, which he described as abysmally low and incapable of sustaining the much desired growth and development of the state. He said total payment to contractors between May and June, 2013 yanked off over N12 billion from the capital fund Account. Meanwhile, Governor Dickson has expressed concern over the State OF re-current expenditure, stressing the need for active participation of the Organized Private Sector

Daniel Iworiso-Markson
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Bayelsa State

DICKSON SIGNS BHSS BILL INTO LAW, RELEASES N500M TAKE OFF GRANT

19/07/2013
DICKSON SIGNS BHSS BILL INTO LAW, RELEASES N500M TAKE OFF GRANT

Bayelsa State Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson has presented a draft of N500m as take off grant to the newly inaugurated board of the State Health Services Scheme to kick start the programme. This is just, as he signed into law the Bayelsa State Health Services Scheme bill that has been described as the first of its kind in the country.

In addition, the government will be remitting between N50m and N100m monthly into the coffers of the Board, to assist in the delivery of the present administration’s health policy.

Disclosing this at the inauguration ceremony of the Bayelsa State Health Services Scheme Board on Friday in Yenagoa, Hon. Dickson said the scheme is primarily targeted at the public servants in the State, adding that they are automatic subscribers to the scheme.

According to him, with the inauguration of the Board, government has provided a legal backing for the establishment of a credible functional and sustainable Health scheme for the Public servants.

“The board will come up with a scheme of premium whereby different people at different grades in our public service will pay and subscribe to it. Irrespective of what they get because of the importance we attach to this programme and the need to ensure its sustainability, government of this great state, apart from the initial N500 million deposit that we are going to give to them, we will also make a monthly payment to the fund of N50 to N100 million every month.

“The whole idea is that whatever they get from the subscriptions from the public sector whatever the amount is, government will also augment it so that those who require medical attention will always have enough funds for treatment.

‘‘When our facilities are completed, and I hope in the next 4 months our Diagnostic centre will be completed, it will be our policy and it will be the duty of this board to implement same, that every public sector worker, every tax paying citizen of this state will be entitled to at least, free medical diagnostic treatment once every year.

Urging the private sector to take advantage of the scheme, Hon. Dickson who also pointed out that the diagnostic centre under construction, when completed in the next 4 months; public servants would enjoy free medical check-up once in a year.

Consequently, he solicited the partnership of the federal government in the area of training of manpower in the medical field as his administration strives to ensure that public servants have the full benefits of the restoration government.

Also speaking, the Minister of Health, Prof. Onyebuchi Chukwu, commended Governor Dickson for initiating the scheme, stating that it would boost the delivery of primary health care in the state.

Prof. Chukwu described the establishment of the health programme as a demonstration of total leadership and assured the state government of Federal Government’s collaboration in the provision of training for medical personnel.

Responding, Chairman of the BHSS, Dr. Markson Amaigbe expressed appreciation to Governor Dickson for the confidence reposed in them and admonished members of the board against sharp practices in the discharge of their responsibilities.

Daniel Iworiso-Markson Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Bayelsa State

GOV DICKSON CALLS FOR COLLABORATION IN THE FIGHT AGAINST HIV/AIDS

19/07/2013
GOV DICKSON CALLS FOR COLLABORATION IN THE FIGHT AGAINST HIV/AIDS

Bayelsa State Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson has called for collective efforts in the fight against the spread of the dreaded HIV/AIDS disease and stigmatization of those affected.

Governor Dickson made the call at a special edition of the state monthly jogging exercise, tagged, “Run-For-Life,” which took off from the Capital City Development Authority and terminated at the Peace Park, Yenagoa.

The event, which featured contestants of this year’s Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria Pageant, was aimed at sensitizing the people on the effects of HIV/AIDS and the need to live a healthy lifestyle.

Describing the scourge as a potent and real danger to the future of the people of the state, the Governor urged them to see the fight against the pandemic as a collective responsibility, stressing that, “the health of one is the health of all.”

Hon. Dickson who said government would not relent in creating awareness about the disease, assured that the payment of the N10,000 monthly stipends to HIV/AIDS victims in the state under the Welfare and Social Security Scheme would be sustained.

“In the next couple of weeks, we are going to have another elaborate ceremony because I think it is important for us to have one public event in every quarter of the year that will enable all of us to drive home the message of HIV/AIDS. You are all aware of the statistics branded about this state is not too encouraging and I am very sad about it. But we need to work with each and every Bayelsan to ensure that the state is safe and healthy.

“In vain do we build all the good roads, bridges, hospitals and other infrastructure as we are doing, if we do not have a healthy population. It means that all of these developments will not be sustained because the human being is the most important resource that we have.”

Speaking, the Director General of the State Agency for the Control of HIV/AIDS, Dr. Temple Iluma, emphasized the need for the people to modify their sexual behavior and take advantage of the free medical services provided by the state government.

According to Dr. Iluma, government has provided free anti retroviral drugs for treatment of those affected and called on people to come out for testing and counseling.

In her remarks, the Director General of the state Tourism Development Agency, Mrs. Ebizi Brown, observed that reduction in stigmatization would encourage those affected to present themselves for testing with a view to knowing their status.

Dignitaries at the event include, Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Edmund Alison Oguru, Commissioner for Sports Development, Chief Mitema Obordor and other members of the state Executive Council, Vice President of Silverbird Group, Mr. Guy Murray Bruce and the Administrator of the Bayelsa State Sports Academy, Mr. Samson Siasia.

Daniel Iworiso-Markson Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Bayelsa

BAYELSA, ONE OF THE SAFEST STATES FOR INVESTORS ….GOV DICKSON, PLEDGES GREATER COMMITMENT TO SECURITY OF LIVES AND PROPERTY

18/07/2013
BAYELSA, ONE OF THE SAFEST STATES FOR INVESTORS ….GOV DICKSON, PLEDGES GREATER COMMITMENT TO SECURITY OF LIVES AND PROPERTY

Bayelsa State Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson on Thursday, stressed the primacy of security in governance, arguing that it is the pivot on which the performance of other responsibilities revolve.

Governor Dickson stated this while receiving the Zonal Commandant, Zone G, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Assistant Commandant-General Joseph Oragande, who paid him a courtesy visit at Government House, Yenagoa.

Underscoring the importance of law and order in society, the Governor maintained that the delivery of dividends of democracy would suffer setbacks in the absence of adequate security of lives and property.

He said it was in realization of this that his administration enacted appropriate legislations to drive its policy of zero tolerance for crime, criminality and violence soon after assumption of office.

Justifying government’s investment in the security sub-sector, Governor Dickson described Bayelsa as one of the safest states in the country where investors can operate in with peace of mind.

While calling for the cooperation of the people to maintain the existing peaceful atmosphere in the state, the Governor saluted the efforts of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and other relevant agencies in tackling the nation’s security challenges.

In his words: “I like to thank you for what your men are doing. Going forward and working together with all other agencies, Bayelsa will even be safer as we move on. As our security plans and activities take more root and people get better sensitized on what we are doing, particularly about their role in working with security agencies, this place will even be much more secure than it is.

“This government has a zero tolerance approach to criminality, brigandage and violence and we are very happy with the cooperation and hard work that all security agencies have made available at the service of our state and country.”

Earlier in his remarks, the Zonal Commandant of Zone G, of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Assistant Commandant-General, Joseph Oragande commended Governor Dickson for his developmental strides and continued partnership with security agencies in the state.

According to Mr. Oragande, he was in the state at the instance of the NSCDC’s Commandant General, Dr. Ade Abolurin to oversee a sensitization seminar on the activities of the corps in the maintenance of law and order.

He requested the state government to assist the corps with a befitting office accommodation, two operational vehicles and a patrol boat.

Responding to the NSCDC’s requests, Hon. Dickson assured the visiting Commandant of his administration’s preparedness to provide an enabling operating environment for the corps within the limits of available resources.

He specifically directed the Chief of Staff, Government House and his Special Adviser on Security to liaise with the Corps to enable government provide the most pressing needs for their operations.

Daniel Iworiso-Markson Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Bayelsa State

GOV DICKSON TASKS BEAUTY PAGEANTS ON FIGHT AGAINST HIV/AIDS SCOURGE

GOV DICKSON TASKS BEAUTY PAGEANTS ON FIGHT AGAINST HIV/AIDS SCOURGE 
Bayelsa State Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson on Wednesday tasked contestants for the 2013, Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria (MBGN) pageant on the fight against the spread of HIV/AIDS virus.                                      

 This is just as he promised to confer an honorary citizenship on the winner of this year’s edition. Speaking while receiving the contestants of the beauty pageant led by the Vice President of the Silverbird Group, Mr. Guy Murray Bruce at Government House, Yenagoa, Hon. Dickson, who also urged the contestants to promote awareness on the HIV/AIDS scourge, invited them to a walk this weekend, which is tagged, “Walk For Life.” aimed at creating awareness on the HIV/AIDS scourge among the citizenry.

  In demonstration of his commitment to the promotion of the tourism sector of the economy, the Governor disclosed that certificate of Honorary citizenship would be presented to the winner of this year edition of the Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria pageant scheduled for Yenagoa, this Saturday.. 

Commending the organizers of the programme for taking time to acquaint the contestants with major historical sites in the state, the Governor said,’ “I’m particularly delighted that the organisers took time to take you round some of the very historic places in the state…Whoever emerges as the 2013 Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria in this particular contest on this great soil of Bayelsa, the Glory of all Lands and the capital of Ijaw nation, that person will be an honorary citizen of this state and will be entitled to all that comes with that honorary citizenship status” 

Describing Bayelsa as one of the most peaceful states in the country, he noted that the state has a lot to offer beyond oil and gas and expressed government’s intention to transform it into a tourism and entertainment hub in the near future.

 Commending the Silverbird Group for promoting the MBGN event, Governor Dickson noted that the presence of the most beautiful girls in the state gives credence to the positive result of the investment being made in the area of security and tourism.

 Earlier, the Vice President of the Silverbird Group, Mr Guy Murray- Bruce pointed out that, whoever emerges as winner would represent the country in the forthcoming Miss World Pageant scheduled to hold in Jakarta, Indonesia. 

According to Murray-Bruce, the contestants have been in the state for the past ten days and have visited various tourist sites including the Whiteman’s Grave in Akassa, the site of the first oil well drilled in the country in 1956 at Oloibiri and the famous Lake Efi at Sabagreia.  

Daniel Iworiso-Markson
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Bayelsa State

GOV. DICKSON SWEARS-IN NEW COMMISSIONER: CALLS FOR TEAMWORK, DEDICATION AMONG POLITICAL APPOINTEES

Bayelsa State Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson has sworn-in a new commissioner for Science, Technology and Manpower Development, with a call on members of the State executive council and political appointees to be good team players as well as render quality service to the government and people of the State.

 The new commissi  oner, Mr. Parkinson Macmanuel, was until his new position, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Secondary Education and replaces Mrs. Didi Walson-Jack, who has since been deployed to Government House as Chief of Staff. 

The Governor also urged political appointees not to engage in unnecessary bickering and acts that are capable of distracting Government’s attention in its desire to fully deliver on its restoration agenda to the people.  

While, expressing confidence in the ability of Mr. Parkinson Macmanuel to deliver on his mandate, the Governor noted that there are still a lot of challenges ahead within government generally and the ministry of Science Technology and Manpower Development and called on him to rise up to the challenge. “You are joining us at a time the restoration train has moved for about a year and half.  A lot is happening but a lot still lies to be unfolded.  

As you have joined us, we expect the highest possible loyalty, hard work and selfless dedication to the assignments, formal and informal that will be assigned to you”. 

Hon. Dickson further urged him to urgently liaise with the former commissioner in charge of the Ministry and the Permanent Secretary for adequate briefings to enable him swing into action as well as unfold the various programmes designed to better the lot of Bayelsans. “You are assigned to the Ministry of Science, Technology and Manpower Development, and in this ministry you have your hands full because we have enormous problems when it comes to job creation, youth management and so on and also encouraging science application in all spheres of our lives”. 

“Like, I said some work has been done, there’s an ambitious programme of empowerment to be unfolded so I expect you to work, get briefings from your permanent secretary and chief of staff and others who are involved. So in no distant time, our people whether they are women will get empowerment, whether the youth, special empowerment scheme so all this programme will have input from your ministry” 

He also reminded all appointees to be focused on the task of developing the State in the meantime, instead of dissipating their energies on politicking as it was not yet time for politics, he remarked. “For us, this is no time for politics, so Hon. Commissioner this is no time for you to play politics.  You are not appointed to play politics.

The only politics appointees should play for now is to mobilize support and offer prayers for the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, who is our leader”. He also used the opportunity to call on the political class in the State to desist from politics of blackmail, propaganda and name dropping, noting that when it is time for politics, the restoration government will not hesitate to play its part to a logical conclusion, describing its members as “tested commanders”, who have succeeded in politics without violence. 

 Daniel Iworiso-Markson
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Bayelsa State 
18/07/ 2013

PAYMENT OF GRATUITIES OF PENSIONERS IN BAYELSA, GOV DICKSON KEEPS PROMISE: WE HAVE PAID N1B OUT OF N4B OWED IN THE LAST 5 YEARS …. HOS

11/07/2013
PAYMENT OF GRATUITIES OF PENSIONERS IN BAYELSA, GOV DICKSON KEEPS PROMISE: WE HAVE PAID N1B OUT OF N4B OWED IN THE LAST 5 YEARS …. HOS 

The Hon. Seriake Dickson-led government of Bayelsa State says it has spent the sum of N1 billion in the payment of backlog of pensions and gratuities owed retirees before its inception. The state Head of Service, Sir Frazer Okuoru disclosed this while speaking with newsmen shortly after addressing a group of pensioners in Yenagoa. 

Sir Frazer explained that two batches of the retirees have already been paid with funds being released by the state government in tranches. The Head of Service empathized with the affected pensioners over their plight and appealed to them to exercise patience as government was committed to clearing the arrears. Sir Frazer, who is also the Chairman of the state Pensions and Gratuity Committee, which has representation from labour and the pensioners’ union, said about N4 billion stood as outstanding total bill before the commencement of the payment.

 Describing the allegation of selective payment leveled against the committee as unfounded, the Head of Service noted that bottom-top approach was being adopted as the modus operandi for clearing the backlog. “So far government has released N1 billion (N500 million each twice) and we disbursed it completely. So it is not a matter of collecting money and fixing it somewhere to yield interest. 

“The Governor wants us to report regularly and as I speak with you, the committee’s report is ready. He (Governor) said whenever we are through; government will release the next batch. “So this morning, when I went to address them, and explained the issues surrounding the payment, they said they don’t want this monthly release arrangement; they want all the money owed them to be released at once.

But I told them that, that is not feasible because government has other competing demands. “My advice to pensioners is that they should exercise patience because there is no way government can pay everybody at the same time. They should show understanding to the listening governor we now have because this problem of backlog was not caused by his administration.” Commenting on the issue, the state Chairman of the National Union of Pensioners (NUP), Dr. Emmanuel Namatebe lauded the present administration for taking practical steps to clear the arrears of pension obligations in the state. Dr. Namatebe described the protesters as members of a splinter group, pointing out that he was not duly informed about their action.

 The NUP Chairman, however, called for unity of purpose amongst pensioners and appealed to the state government to give a standing order to relevant authorities to ensure monthly release of the pension funds. “Well, I am happy that the present governor has started the payment of gratuities that he did not owe. But I want to appeal to the governor to give a standing order to the Accountant-General so that this N500million he is releasing should be made very regular. He should try and make sure that the money is set aside as soon as they return from FAAC meeting. If that is done, I believe every gratuity will be paid between now and December this year,” said Namatebe.  

Daniel Iworiso-Markson
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Bayelsa State.

NOC APPOINTMENT: WE ARE PROUD OF YOU, GO YE AND DELIVER …..GOV DICKSON TELLS IGALI

11/07/2013
NOC APPOINTMENT: WE ARE PROUD OF YOU, GO YE AND DELIVER …..GOV DICKSON TELLS IGALI

Governor Henry Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa State has hailed the appointment of Hon. Daniel Igali as Chairman, Technical Commission of the Nigerian Olympic Committee (NOC), describing it as one of the best decisions taken by the country’s Olympic committee.

Reacting to the appointment, the Governor commended the leadership of the NOC, noting that Igali’s appointment will mark the beginning of a turning point in Nigeria’s quest to attain greater recognition and performance in the global sports arena.According to him, Igali has proved himself worthy, both as a world class athlete and during his spell as technical adviser of the Nigerian Wrestling Federation, that he has the qualities to drive the nation’s sports to greater heights, if given the opportunity.

He noted with satisfaction, Daniel Igali’s enviable exploits both on and off the wrestling mat, adding that he has remained a pacesetter and an inspiration to the present generation of sportsmen and women as well as those yet unborn.

Describing him as a tough, resilience, determined and result oriented sportsman of repute, Gov Dickson expressed the hope that, he will bring his wealth of experience at various levels of participation in sports to better the nation’s fortunes as well as bring about a whole new concept and orientation among our athletes, coaches and administrators.

His words “The Government and good people of Bayelsa state are proud of your enviable record of achievements in wrestling and sports in general and we trust that even on this occasion, you will not let us down”“I wish to assure you that, your Government and Bayelsans, whom you have always proudly represented, will give you all the needed support and encouragement to succeed and excel in your new assignment”“I also want to commend the sporting fraternity, especially the wrestling family and the NOC for the confidence reposed in Daniel Igali, who has remained a successful and exemplary ambassador of our country”

The Bayelsa state Governor used the opportunity to recall, Igali’s recent selection by the world wrestling body to address the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Executive Board in St. Petersburg, Russia for the sport to retain its place in the Olympic Games, even beyond the 2016 games in Rio de Jeneiro, Brazil.“That, you were recognized as one of five persons from all over the world to speak for wrestling is a manifestation of how much you are accepted Internationally and places you as first among equals in the global sporting arena and Bayelsa and the Ijaw nation are proud of this feat” 

Daniel Iworiso-Markson
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Bayelsa State 

GOV DICKSON ADVOCATES THE FORMULATION OF AN ACCEPTABLE AND EQUITABLE REVENUE FORMULA AT RMAFC INTERACTIVE SESSION

09/07/2013
GOV DICKSON ADVOCATES THE FORMULATION OF AN ACCEPTABLE AND EQUITABLE REVENUE FORMULA AT RMAFC INTERACTIVE SESSION 

Bayelsa State Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson has described the current efforts of the Federal Revenue Mobilization, Allocation and Fiscal Commission to review the derivation formula as a step in the right direction. 

Represented by the Deputy Governor, Retired Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John Jonah at the Interactive session with members and staff of the Commission at the Executive Council Chambers of Government House, Yenagoa, Governor Dickson noted that the move would translate into the formulation of an acceptable and equitable revenue formula for the country. 

Governor Dickson, who noted that he was looking forward to the presentations that would be made at the zonal level, assured that the state government would set up a committee that would effectively reflect the state’s position on the issue. Commending the commission for the sensitization visit, the Governor expressed satisfaction with the explanations offered by the team adding that the format provided by the commission would guide the state in the preparation of its memorandum. 

In his remarks, the commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Chief Ambrose Akierite, described the visit of the commission as timely, stressing that the interest of the states should be protected. Highlighting efforts made by the state to shore up the internally generated revenue, the Commissioner said machinery has been put in place to ensure the proper application of relevant tax laws. 

In his presentation, a Commissioner in Federal Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission, Mr. Frank Owhor who represented the Chairman of the commission explained that the objective of the visit was to enlighten all stakeholders and the public on the need to participate actively in the review process of a new revenue allocation formula. 

Mr. Owhor gave the current allocation formula as Federal Government 52.68%, state 26.72% and Local Government 20.60% with the expendable share of the Federal Government put at 48.5% of the Federation Account describing the balance of 4.18% as the Special Fund which is kept in trust.    

Daniel Iworiso-Markson
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Bayelsa State

SOUTH-SOUTH, SOUTH-EAST GOVERNORS TO ENHANCE ECONOMIC COOPERATION

08/07/2013
SOUTH-SOUTH, SOUTH-EAST GOVERNORS TO ENHANCE ECONOMIC COOPERATION

 Governors of the South-South and South-East Geo-political zones have resolved to create and promote infrastructural and economic integration between the zones. 

The resolution was contained in a brief communique presented by the Anambra State Governor Dr. Peter Obi shortly after a meeting of the governors of the two zones in Government House, Enugu, the Enugu State capital. 

According to the communiqué, the Governments of Akwa Ibom and Abia states have agreed to reconstruct and dualize the Aba-Ikot Ekpene road in partnership with the private sector to boost trade and investments between the two states. 

Governor Obi said the meeting focused mainly on crude oil theft and ways on how to curb the menace, build ethnic harmony, economic cooperation between the two geo-political zones and support to President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration. 

It also expressed satisfaction with President Jonathan’s transformation agenda, noting that the programmes, as presented in the mid-term report were an indication that the five-point agenda is on track. Re-affirming their commitment to the President, the Governors pledged to work with him towards the actualization of the vision of the present administration. 

Eight out of the eleven governors of the two zones with the Bayelsa State Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson and his counterparts from Abia, Delta, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Anambra, Ebonyi, and the host Governor, Mr. Sullivan Chime of Enugu were in attendance. 

Daniel Iworiso-Markson
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Bayelsa State

BAYELSA SET TO DEVELOP WORLD CLASS COMPUTERISED GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEM AS GOV DICKSON SIGNS MOU WITH FIRM

07/07/2013
BAYELSA SET TO DEVELOP WORLD CLASS COMPUTERISED GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEM AS GOV DICKSON SIGNS MOU WITH FIRM

The Bayelsa State Government signed a Memorandum of Understanding with a reputable IT provider, SIVAN Design D. S. Limited to develop a world-class computerised system to run its geographic information system, (BGIS).

Speaking, during the MOU signing ceremony at Government House, Yenagoa, Governor Seriake Dickson noted that the project when completed would go a long way in enhancing on-going efforts by his administration to beautify its capital city.Apart from facilitating the growth of critical infrastructure in the state, the Governor maintained that the project will also increase government’s capacity in driving its tax policy.

Governor Dickson, who decried what he describes as undue delay in the issuance of certificates of occupancy (C of O ), pointed out that the Bayelsa Geographic Information System will speed up the process of certifying titles to owners of landed property in the state.

“This project when completed will give us the capacity to turn Yenagoa around from being a slum city to one of the best planned and beautiful and modern cities in this country”“This is one of the most important projects the ministry of lands will be executing under my government. It is my belief and expectation that in no distant time, it will be possible in this state for people to go into land transaction and in a matter of days and weeks, not months and years, have their certificate of occupancy”.

Describing the project as dear to his administration Restoration agenda, Hon. Dickson urged the contractor to execute the project according to specification and deliver it in record time.

To facilitate the job, Governor Dickson presented a financial instrument (draft) worth N508 million, which represents 30 percent payment of the total contract sum as mobilisation to Sivan D. S. Design.

While urging them to expedite work on the project, the Bayelsa State Chief Executive said government would not entertain any delay and variation.

In his remarks, the Commissioner for Lands and Survey, Surveyor Furoebi Akene explained that, the system will to a large extent also assist in solving boundary litigation, saying “If you bring a C of O or a land document and we log it in and it is not falling in the proper place, we will be able to point it out and tell you that your survey plan or data capture is faulty”.On his part, Managing Director, Bayelsa Geographic Information Systems, Mr. Odubo Ebifuro described the project as a computer-based data capture, management and retrieval system capable of serving different purposes to drive development in the state.

Earlier the Managing Director of Sivan Design D. S. Limited, Mr. Shay Chevuti assured the Governor of his firm’s readiness to complete the project within the stipulated 2 years time-frame. 

Daniel Iworiso-Markson
Chief Press Secretsry to the Governor of Bayelsa State

BAYELSA SEEK FG SUPPORT FOR 3 SENATORIAL ROAD PROJECTS TO BOOST STATE AND FEDRAL ECONOMIES

05/07/2013
BAYELSA SEEK FG SUPPORT FOR 3 SENATORIAL ROAD PROJECTS TO BOOST STATE AND FEDRAL ECONOMIES

 Bayelsa State Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson has solicited the support of the Federal Government to enable it complete the Nembe – Brass, Ekeremor- Agge and Yenagoa- Oporoma- Koluama road projects  in the State.

According to Hon. Dickson, the request has become imperative inview of the huge financial costs of the roads and their strategic importance to the socio-economic development of the state as well as the need to properly harness the oil and gas potentials in the Brass area and the proposed Deep sea port in Agge.Speaking when a delegation of the House of Representatives Committee on Works and top officials of the Federal Ministry of Works called him at Government House, Yenagoa, the Governor noted that the state has the least number of federal roads and infrastructures in the country, stressing that that the terrain and the riverine nature of the state have made the cost of executing such  road projects very high for the State to solely undertake.

 “ You will notice in course of your painstaking oversight visit that Bayelsa State probably has the least number of federal roads, the least federal infrastructures and presence in terms of infrastructures. We have less than a hundred kilometre  of federal roads, and that is appalling.“ You would have also seen the challenges that our environment presents which are very peculiar. With all the construction we are doing, people say we have turned the state into a massive construction yard. That’s what we promised, that’s what we are doing and that’s what the people  deserved.

“ But I know the cost of doing one kilometre of road is such that you can use it to construct twenty kilometres of road else where.”Expressing appreciation to the committees’ visit to inspect the Yenagoa- Okarki- Kolo road project, Hon. Dickson pointed out that the road had been on the drawing board for a long time and want the speedy completion of the project boost economic activities in the state, while also calling on the federal government to support the State in the completion of the Nembe- Brass road, which he stated will gulp over a hundred billion naira.“ We would like the federal government to construct a road, not only finishing the one from Yenagoa through Okarki to Kolo, but take a road from Nembe to Brass.

We are contemplating that, but the resources are not available because of the terrain. I sent in three contractors to do the costing and the cheapest we can get is hundred billion naira. The road and others lead to the atlantic ocean, and as I have always said in this state’ our wealth as a State and Country beyond oil and gas, is the access to the atlantic and we are not taking advantage of it as a State and Country”.

Earlier, the House Committee Chairman on Works, Hon. Ogbuefi Ozomgbachi said the visit which is an oversight function of the National Assembly, was to inspect on-going work at the 33.5 kilometre Yenagoa- Okarki- Kolo road with a view to ensuring that the project  is not  compromised and  executed according to specification and with the right materials.Hon. Ozomgbachi, while expressing the commitment of the visiting team to ensure the speedy completion of federal projects, lauded Governor Seriake Dickson for his achievements so far noting that “ the House of Representative is proud of one of its own”. 

Daniel Iworiso-Markson
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Bayelsa State

GOV DICKSON LINKS PROLIFERATION OF SMALL AND LIGHT WEAPONS TO PERPETRATORS OF ILLEGAL BUNKERING AND REFINING IN LITTORAL STATES

05/07/2013
GOV DICKSON LINKS PROLIFERATION OF SMALL AND LIGHT WEAPONS TO PERPETRATORS OF ILLEGAL BUNKERING AND REFINING IN LITTORAL STATES 

 Bayelsa State Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson says the activities of oil thieves pose a great threat not only to the economy but also to national security. Governor Dickson stated this when he received the new Flag Officer Commanding, Central Naval Command, Yenagoa, Rear Admiral Sidi-Ali Usman in Government House, Yenagoa.

 Expressing concern over the impunity with which perpetrators of illegal bunkering, sea piracy and pipeline vandalism operate to undermine constituted authority, the governor linked the proliferation of small and light weapons to such activities in the littoral states. According to Governor Dickson, the criminals have been able to sustain their operations over the years through the proceeds from illegal bunkering activities. 

In his words: “What is going on is more of a threat to national security than even the loss of revenue that everybody is shouting about. Let me tell you that all the violence, brigandage and criminality that we experience in the Niger Delta states particularly Bayelsa where I know more, have their roots in the activities in the creeks. “It is from there they have easy funds to recruit followers; it is from these activities of crude oil theft and illegal refining that people are able to sustain such large numbers of youths and put them into various cult groups. “What is going on has a direct effect on the proliferation of small and light weapons because they need an army of youths to protect their territories to be able to withstand the onslaught of legitimate security personnel. 

The Governor warned those who have rebuffed the olive branch extended to cultists by the state government to have a change of heart, as his administration would not hesitate to bring them to justice " For those of you who have defied the Cultism Proscription law, in spite of the olive branch we have put forward and arrangement for their renunciation and eventual integration but still want to go ahead with cult activities, I am sounding a clear note of warning that this government will not succumb to blackmail  or propaganda.This government will work with security agencies in this state to ensure that those who violate the laws of this state and country will be brought to book."

Consequently, he called for maximum cooperation from the security operatives especially the Nigerian Navy to achieve the present administration’s policy of zero tolerance to violence and crime. 

Describing the establishment of the Central Naval Command in the state as significant, Governor Dickson said considering the maritime nature of the state, the Navy has a crucial role to play in policing its waterways. While commending the out gone Flag Officer Commanding, Rear Admiral Olutoyin Johnson for serving the state creditably, he assured the new FOC of government’s continued support. 

Commenting on his posting to the Command, the Flag Officer Commanding, Central Naval Command, Rear Admiral Sidi-Ali Usman, said he assumed duties about 3 weeks ago and has already gone on a familiarization tour of the formations under his command. Rear Admiral Usman expressed determination to combat oil theft and other criminal activities in line with federal government’s mandate.     

Daniel Iworiso-Markson
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Bayelsa State

Flooding: Bayelsa Govt allays fear over NIMET prediction ……releases N500m

04/07/2013
Flooding: Bayelsa Govt allays fear over NIMET prediction ……releases N500m 

The Bayelsa State Government has allayed the fears of the people of the state over the forecast of the Nigeria Meteorological Agency, (NIMET) of heavy rainfall and attendant flooding in some states of the country including Bayelsa, submitting that proactive measures have been taken to reduce the magnitude of 2012 flooding. 

The State Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson who is billed to proceed on his two week annual vacation stated, ‘aside the release of N500m, his administration has put in place other measures aimed at cushioning the effects of the flood waters as well as reducing its gravity. The NIMET predicted that this year’s flooding will reach its peak in August and September, the governor assured the people that they do not have any cause to entertain any fears. 

Hon. Dickson disclosed that three committees-Post Flood Management Committee, Infrastructure and Inter-Governmental Flood and Relief Committee have been put in place to work out modalities at preventing its recurrence. The governor added that work has commenced on the opening up of the water courses, construction of drainages and dykes in and around the state capital, while some structures are being elevated.

Making this known at the presentation of N500 million cheque to the members of the Inter Governmental Flood and Relief and Committee at the Banquet Hall, Yenagoa headed by the Deputy Governor, Retired Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John Jonah, Governor Dickson charged them to liaise with other organs of the state towards harmonizing response efforts as well as work closely with the communities towards the establishment of fifty relief camps in the state.

 He has therefore called on the people to cooperate with members of the committees to enable them succeed in their assignment. Responding, chairman of the Inter-Governmental Flood and Relief Committee, Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John Jonah, (Rtd) assured the Governor of the committee’s preparedness to manage the anticipated flood.   

 Daniel Iworiso-Markson
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Bayelsa State

Flooding: Bayelsa Govt allays fear over NIMET prediction ……releases N500m

04/07/2013
Flooding: Bayelsa Govt allays fear over NIMET prediction ……releases N500m 

The Bayelsa State Government has allayed the fears of the people of the state over the forecast of the Nigeria Meteorological Agency, (NIMET) of heavy rainfall and attendant flooding in some states of the country including Bayelsa, submitting that proactive measures have been taken to reduce the magnitude of 2012 flooding. 

The State Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson who is billed to proceed on his two week annual vacation stated, ‘aside the release of N500m, his administration has put in place other measures aimed at cushioning the effects of the flood waters as well as reducing its gravity. The NIMET predicted that this year’s flooding will reach its peak in August and September, the governor assured the people that they do not have any cause to entertain any fears. 

Hon. Dickson disclosed that three committees-Post Flood Management Committee, Infrastructure and Inter-Governmental Flood and Relief Committee have been put in place to work out modalities at preventing its recurrence. The governor added that work has commenced on the opening up of the water courses, construction of drainages and dykes in and around the state capital, while some structures are being elevated.

Making this known at the presentation of N500 million cheque to the members of the Inter Governmental Flood and Relief and Committee at the Banquet Hall, Yenagoa headed by the Deputy Governor, Retired Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John Jonah, Governor Dickson charged them to liaise with other organs of the state towards harmonizing response efforts as well as work closely with the communities towards the establishment of fifty relief camps in the state.

 He has therefore called on the people to cooperate with members of the committees to enable them succeed in their assignment. Responding, chairman of the Inter-Governmental Flood and Relief Committee, Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John Jonah, (Rtd) assured the Governor of the committee’s preparedness to manage the anticipated flood.   

 Daniel Iworiso-Markson
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Bayelsa State

GOV DICKSON TO STATE OWNED OIL COMPANY ...FASHION OUT POLICIES TO REPOSITION BAYELSA FOR ACTIVE PARTICIPATION IN OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY

04/07/2013
GOV DICKSON TO STATE OWNED OIL COMPANY ...FASHION OUT POLICIES TO REPOSITION BAYELSA FOR ACTIVE PARTICIPATION IN OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY 

As part of efforts geared towards building a strong economy for the State, the Bayelsa State Government has tasked the board of its oil company to fashion out policies to reposition the State for active participation in the nation’s oil and gas sector.

Governor Seriake Dickson gave the charge while inaugurating the Chairman and members of the Board of the Bayelsa Oil Company Limited at Government House, Yenagoa.

Describing the company as strategic, Hon. Dickson challenged the board to take advantage of the existing favourable investment climate to shore up the asset base of the company.Considering the peculiar position of the state as a major oil producer in the country, he called for intensified efforts to enable the company acquire more stakes in the industry to add to its existing marginal and ordinary oil blocs.While emphasising the need for synergy between the board and the Bayelsa Development and Investment Corporation (BDIC), the State Chief Executive particularly asked the new board to explore opportunities in the downstream sector of the oil and gas industry.

Describing the Chairman and members of the board as men of experience and proven integrity, Governor Dickson expressed his determination to give them the needed support to actualize the objectives of the company.“Let me charge the Chairman and members of the board to build on the assets of that company.  You will have our support to make effort and take advantage of the various situations that are favourable right   now to ensure that we build on our asset base in terms of upstream assets and operations.  

But beyond that, it is my charge to you also to explore opportunities in the downstream sector because our company should be involved in all aspects of the oil and gas industry.“I have received several business delegations from within and outside this country, seeking to participate and partner with us in the actualization of the objectives of the Bayelsa Oil Company.  But I feel they should all wait for the board to come on stream so that the board and management can take informed decision.“You are all aware that we have the overriding holding company that we have inaugurated in this state, that is, the Bayelsa Development and Investment Corporation. That Corporation by its very structure is to oversee all our commercial activities.  So, this board will relate from time to time with the BDIC board and committees, he said.

Responding, the Chairman of the Board of the Bayelsa Oil Company Limited, King Amalate Turner expressed the new board’s readiness to tackle the challenges facing the company to make it more viable. King Turner also expressed the intention of the Board to strictly run the company as a private organisation to enable it achieve set objectives such as generating enough employment opportunities for people of the state.Other members of the eight-member board are Dr. Daru Owei, Barrister Fidelis Agbiki and Chief Duncan Eke.Also to serve on the board are John Dauta, Tamaraukuro Etonye, Barrister Timiebi Okara and Adolphus Forcados. 

Daniel Iworiso-Markson
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Bayelsa State

GOV DICKSON ASSURES ON COMPLETION OF NYSC PERMANENT ORIENTATION CAMP, APPLAUDS NEW BOARD’S REFORM PROGRAMMES FOR SCHEME

04/07/2013
GOV DICKSON ASSURES ON COMPLETION OF NYSC PERMANENT ORIENTATION CAMP, APPLAUDS NEW BOARD’S REFORM PROGRAMMES FOR SCHEME

Bayelsa State Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson has lauded the new governing board of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) for introducing reforms that would improve the welfare of youth corps members as well as provide employment opportunities for them after their service period.The Governor, who made the commendation when the Governing Board of the NYSC led by its Chairman, Chief Gordon Bozimo paid him a courtesy call in Government House, Yenagoa, reiterated the importance of the NYSC scheme in nation building while expressing his administration’s commitment to partner with the Federal Government to continually promote ideals of the scheme in all ramifications.“There is no doubt that the NYSC is a scheme that we all need to support.  

I want to commend the Federal Government and the President for the renewed vigour and renewed interest in enabling the NYSC to achieve its set objectives in this trying period where, more than ever before, the NYSC itself has become a victim of the contradiction of our nation.“But the NYSC is a pointer to the hopes and possibilities of this country because that is a body that talks about service as the first port of call for a lot of our young people.

  That is where they get introduced to the ideals of service and nation building”.Expressing the challenges of youth development and empowerment in the state, Hon. Dickson called for collaboration between Government and the NYSC to train youths, noting that it was one of the reasons that informed government’s decision to speed up work at the permanent NYSC orientation camp in Kaiama in Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area of the state.

He explained that, some of the facilities at the orientation camp will also be used in the implementation of government’s training programmes for youths in the State.“In our state, we are doing everything we can to work with the Federal Government on a lot of concepts; a lot of initiatives and the NYSC is not an exception.  When we took over, we saw the plan to build a world class permanent orientation camp, not only for the use of the NYSC, but also for the training of our youths.

  We thought that because of youth challenges, we should quickly finish that facility which has gone very far”According to him, the road that is leading to the orientation camp has been completed and facilities at the camp include, hostels, administrative blocks and others which are presently under construction, pointing out that when fully completed, the NYSC permanent orientation camp will be one of the best in the country.

Responding to various requests made by the NYSC Governing Board Chairman, Governor Dickson directed the NYSC State Director to liaise with the office of the Secretary to the State Government to work out modalities on how best government can assist them.On the security situation in the State, he assured the NYSC Chairman of the safety of corps members posted to the State, noting however that the issue of employment of youth corps members after their service period should be the concern of all stakeholders both in government and the private sector.

The Governor used the occasion to call on local government councils, traditional rulers and opinion leaders to support and encourage all the corps members serving within communities in the state.Earlier in his remarks, the NYSC helmsman, Chief Gordon Bozimo said the visit was part of their oversight functions to all the states of the federation.Chief Bozimo commended Governor Seriake Dickson for his exemplary leadership qualities, while expressing his appreciation to the Governor for embarking on a permanent and befitting NYSC orientation camp in the state as well as various welfare and financial supports to corps members.

He informed the Governor of plans to introduce reforms in the NYSC scheme to improve on the welfare of corps members, provide employment opportunities and to give them a safe environment to effectively discharge their national assignments.The NYSC Governing Board Chairman also appealed to the Governor to provide better office accommodation, vehicle for monitoring and life jackets for the corps members, especially those serving in the riverine areas. 

Daniel Iworiso-Markson
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Bayelsa State

GOV DICKSON INSTITUTES SOCIAL SECURITY SCHEME ….BAYELSANS 75 YEARS AND ABOVE NOW ENJOY MONTHLY STIPENDS

04/07/2013
GOV DICKSON INSTITUTES SOCIAL SECURITY SCHEME ….BAYELSANS 75 YEARS AND ABOVE NOW ENJOY MONTHLY STIPENDS

  Bayelsans who have attained the age of 75 years and above are to enjoy some level of comfort under the new Bayelsa Welfare and Social Security Scheme in line with the restoration agenda of the present administration of Governor Seriake Dickson. Categories of Bayelsans to be supported with a monthly stipends of N5000 (five thousand naira) under the scheme are those who are indigenes of the state and not pensioners in both the public and private sector. 

Addressing a number of the elderly persons in Government House, during a symbolic presentation of the stipends for the months of May and June, 2013, Governor Seriake Dickson stressed that it was the responsibility of government to cater for the welfare and wellbeing of elderly people in society. Expressing government’s resolve to serve the people of the state, he vowed not to spare any effort at improving the standard of living of the people   

 “For us in government, we are here to serve the people. Government belongs to the people and not the other way round. It is your government and we will not stop at anything; under my charge, government of this great state will strive hard to meet your needs in all spheres of life. “We have shown that some of these things are possible. And we have good elders of this state, all of us here parents, uncles, aunts and mothers very often because of the challenges of present day living, most of the children that our old people have are not readily available when needed. And we know that our old people, due to no fault of theirs, are sometimes left without the care and support that they rightly deserve”   

 Making clarification on the modalities for payment of the stipends, across the state, Governor Dickson said chairmen of the Rural Development Authorities would be saddled with the responsibility of the payment of the stipend for those who have been registered. According to the Governor, the State House of Assembly is also expected to perform its oversight functions on the mechanisms adopted for the disbursement of the funds as well as give quarterly reports of the implementation of the welfare scheme. 

Governor Dickson however warned operators of the scheme not to see it as an opportunity to perpetrate fraud, especially the Community Development Committee Chairmen and traditional rulers and the Rural Development officials stressing that exploiters of the welfare would be penalized. “We are not my dear people creating an avenue for fraud with this policy; we are not creating an opportunity for people to impersonate old; we are not creating an opportunity for people who are not from Bayelsa State to come and claim that they are from Bayelsa State because there is penalty for all of that.

And so let me at this point, draw the attention of those who have a duty to perform under the scheme particularly the CDC chairmen, traditional rulers of the various communities and the G32 workers that once we notice any fraud, we will deal with it purely as a crime.”  

In her remarks, the Senior Special Assistant to  the Governor on the Elderly, Mrs Keseme Wilson explained that, next week her team would strive to make payments to the elderly across the state and commended the state government for keeping faith with the policy. 

  Responding, one of the beneficiaries, Mr. Emmanuel Imomoleigha who spoke in Izon was full of praises for Governor Dickson for the gesture. The 91 year-old man from Sampou Community in Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area of the State, prayed God to bless Governor Dickson and his administration as well as grant him the strength and good health to carry on his good works.      

Daniel Iworiso-Markson
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Bayelsa State

Bayelsa State College of Education is back to life

Bayelsa State College of Education is back to life
June 28, 2013

Recently, the Bayelsa State College of Education was not only renamed Isaac Jasper Boro College of Education to immortalise the Niger Delta legendary hero, but  relocated  to Sagbama local government  area  and  has consequently resumed for normal academic activities for 2012/2013  session, with  students and staff applauding Governor Dickson’s decision, writes  AHERHOKE OKIOMA

Normal academic activities have resumed at the permanent site of the Bayelsa state, Isaac Jasper Boro college of Education, Sagbama in Sagbama Local Government Area with a student population of 701 and 25 programs with introduction of Theatre Arts and Music as new courses. A source told Blueprint that students would soon matriculate awaiting formal accreditation of courses.

To this end a theatre Hall is to be constructed, and to forestall the fate that had earlier befallen it, this time around, a bill was signed into law not only for its relocation, but naming by the state governor who is a lawyer and former Attorney -General and Commissioner of Justice.

 The prayers in the lips of Bayelsans is that Sagbama should remain the permanent site which would not be changed when the government of Seriake Dickson comes to an end as it has become a norm in Nigeria history that every leader wants a higher institution to be sited in his area and no doubt the Sagbama choice was not an exemption to that consideration.if it were to be subjected to an opinion poll, majority of Bayelsans would have preferred  Okordia-Zarama where a similar institution was once sited and abandoned  with the facilities wasting away probably waiting for when somebody from there would become governor for it to be remembered.                                                                                                                                                          To kick start this citadel of knowledge the state governor appointed professor Savior Agora as the pioneer provost of Isaac Jasper Boro College of Education, Sagbama. Prof  Saviour Agoro who had lectured at the state owned  Niger Delta University and a pioneer staff of the Peremabiri Campus of Rivers State College of Education ,warned against truancy and absenteeism  among staff and urged them to show commitment and dedication to duties as the management of the institution was poised to provide a friendly and conducive atmosphere  for them to perform their functions  effectively.

In a maiden meeting with academic and non-academic staff he warned against truancy and lateness to duty. He declared” Those who are willing to work should prepare to make sacrifices that are associated with a new institution  and those who are not ready to face these challenges should resign their appointment now , we are here to work and will not beg anybody to work” he stressed.

The Bayelsa state college of Education has suffered policy somersault in the past that has resulted to its relocation to Agudama -Epie and later to Okpoama , the home town of Former Gov Timipre Sylva where for over an academic session,  the college could barely admit about 50 students. 

With over 200 lecturers, the students and staff were scared of the location, which was politically motivated until its relocation was revoked by the present administration of Governor Dickson who sited it in a more central upland area.

At that time, lecturers found it demoralizing after much research to meet an empty class, sometimes there will be no students at all to be taught and it’s lavish liaison office at Yenizue -Epie, Yenagoa became a veritable opportunity for staff to idle away their times , just as some only signed their attendance register daily and go home to Waite for the next day.

By Aherhoke Okioma
Source: blueprint newspaper online.

GOV DICKSON SIGNS FOUR BILLS INTO LAW

03/07/2013
GOV DICKSON SIGNS FOUR BILLS INTO LAW

 Bayelsa State Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson has signed into law, four out of the five bills presented to him by the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Konbowei Benson. The bills are, the Bayelsa State Sports Academy, Bayelsa State Environmental Sanitation Authority Amendment, Bayelsa State Emergency Management Agency and the Bayelsa State Welfare and Social Security Scheme Laws all of 2013.

 Appending his signature on the bills at the Executive Council Chambers of Government House, Yenagoa, Governor Dickson explained that Bayelsa State Health Insurance Scheme Bill would be signed into law at a later date when the appointment of members of the board for the scheme is made to enable it become fully operational.  

Describing the laws as significant and epochal, he said they would help to usher in a new dawn in the annals of the history of the state and called on the people of the state to support government to enable it succeed in the task of transforming Bayelsa in line with the dreams of its founding fathers.  

 In his words: “ I have not appended my signature on the Bayelsa State Health Insurance Bill. That is a very serious innovation that once again your government with the support of the State House of Assembly is introducing in the annals of governance and in the annals of meeting the health agenda of government and because of the epochal nature and significance of the scheme and the law that will establish it, there are a number of stakeholders who have indicated their intention to be with us on the day when I will be signing that bill into law.

 “I have instructed my office to ensure that we conclude the appointment of members of the board so that on that day, the number of interested stakeholders and development partners who have shown interest in what we are doing in the health sector will be here and we will also take advantage of that ceremony to inaugurate the board of that scheme. 

Stressing the importance of the Welfare and Social Security Scheme Law, the governor described it as the first of its kind not only in the state but the country with the payment of monthly stipends for the aged. “On the Welfare and Social Security Law, people who are vulnerable within a particular class as may be determined by the Executive Council from time to time, will be entitled to some level of support with the provision of monthly stipend and other forms of support. “That is the right thing to do because the government and this state exists for you, your comfort and your wellbeing and it is our duty to support those of you who need support.”

 The Governor also commended members of the state Assembly for what he termed as uncommon dedication to their legislative duties as they were supposed to have gone on recess.  

On the Bayelsa State Emergency Management Agency Law, Governor Dickson noted that the measure was part of government’s coordinated efforts to take proactive steps for the anticipated flood this year as well as the management of other disasters.

Presenting the bills, Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Konbowei Benson said the bills were deliberated and passed within the period of two months.  

Daniel Iworiso-Markson
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Bayelsa State