Ex-Militants To Jonathan: Contest 2015 Election Or Don’t Return Home

June 30, 2014

Hundreds of former Niger Delta militants mostly of Ijaw extraction have asked President Goodluck Jonathan to declare his intention to contest the 2015 presidential election or risk being banished forever from Ijaw land.

The ex-militants, who gave the warning under the aegis of Ex-militant Phase 3 Leaders of Federal Government Amnesty Programme, said they were angered following what they described as “provocative and unwarranted comments” by politicians to intimidate their kinsman and hinder him from contesting the 2015 presidential election.

In a resolution reached after a meeting held in Benin City, the Edo State capital, signed by its chairman and speaker, Godstime Ogidigba and Peter Edah respectively, they also called on all Nigerians to join hands with the federal government in its effort to bring to an end the activities of the Boko Haram sect which have continued to claim the lives of Nigerians.

They said, “The call became necessary at a time like this when some individuals and selfish politicians are over-heating the polity, making provocative comments and saying Mr President promised them that he would run for just one term as if they are now the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

"Therefore, we warn any group of persons or politicians that will attempt to stop Mr President from exercising his fundamental human right that this will put the unity of Nigeria at great risk. We, therefore, call on you to contest the seat of the President. And if for any reason you fail to contest come 2015, you should not come back home but remain in Abuja forever.

”While expressing confidence that Nigeria will soon overcome the security challenges and the eventual release of the abducted Chibok girls, the group called on the citizens to support the transformation agenda of the Federal Government.

Source.. Leadership
http://leadership.ng/news/376472/ex-militants-jonathan-contest-2015-election-dont-return-home

COMMISSIONERS TAKE OATH IN BAYELSA; TOLD TO UPHOLD THE PRINCIPLES OF PROBITY, PRUDENCE, TRANSPARENCY

28/06/2014

Bayelsa State Governor, Hon Seriake Dickson at the weekend swore in two new commissioners with a call on them to abide by the principles of probity, prudence, transparency and service which his administration represents.

Those sworn in are Mr Nimibofa Ayawei as commissioner for Housing, while Mr Julius Otele is to man the ministry of Tourism Development.

Governor Dickson, who also swore in a part time representative of the state in the Niger Delta Development Commission board, Mr Ball Oyarede as his Special Adviser on general duties, charged the appointees to show unflinching support and loyalty to the restoration government to enable it provide more democratic dividends to the people.

He reaffirmed the present administration's commitmitment to diversifying the economy of the state through tourism, agriculture and promotion of small and medium enterprises and manufacturing activities by providing the enabling environment.

According to the governor, his administration will not relent in its efforts at pursuing aggressive infrastructural development and making Bayelsa more secure to attract well meaning investors, which he noted have started streaming into the state.

He particularly urged the commissioner for housing to midwife a major housing scheme, that will benefit the generality of the people, not only in Yenagoa, the state capital, but also at the various local government areas.

The Governor said, "For the ministry of housing development, the Honourable commissioner, who will help pilot our various housing programmes. You are already conversant with some of the initiatives that we have started in that sector. We want to see mega housing projects, not only in Yenagoa, so that we can reduce the challenges we have been facing in that area.

" We are also having a system where in very few months from now, we want to see housing estates in local government areas. Some of these projects have started in some of our communities and council headquarters. So, working with your colleagues, you are expected to midwife the delivery of robust housing projects in this state in no distant time.

Underscoring the critical role tourism plays in modern economies, Hon. Dickson noted that efforts were underway to establish a school of tourism in the state to meet the manpower needs of the subsector.

He described the state government decision to host major tourism and entertainment related events as deliberate, adding that " already the steps we have taken in the past two years to market and reposition the image of our state through this effort have started yielding tremendous fruits in all sectors.

" It is drawing investors and business leaders to the state and with the results that this government has achieved in the area of maintaining peace and security by working with the security agencies, we count on you to give leadership and drive to that ministry, so that, our tourism facilities, cultural activities and carnivals could be enhanced and upgraded.

Dignitaries who witnessed the swearing-in included Speaker, Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Konbowei Benson, Hon Inaye Aganaba, who represented the state Chief Judge, Justice Kate Abiri, President Customary Court of Appeal, Justice Daniel Ayah and Chairman, Bayelsa Oil Company, King Amalate Turner.

Daniel Iworiso-Markson

Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Bayelsa State

Bayelsa To Hosts Africa Fashion Reception

The Honourable Minister of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation Chief Edem Duke has declared that Bayelsa State will host the 2014 African Fashion Reception in Yenaoga from July 3^rd - July 5^th.

The Minister announced this at a Press Conference recently in Abuja where he stated that the event would showcase cultural diversity expressed through the artistic fashion discipline.

The event which has the theme “Africa is the new inspiration of global fashion” will be declared open by President Goodluck Jonathan.

“Africa Fashion Reception will create free trade and partnership among practitioners in the African continent. It will also attract global attention to Africa’s rich and diversified dress culture and serve as a catalyst for socio-economic growth of the continent’s textile industry” Chief Duke said.

The Minister further explained that the Africa Fashion Reception will expand the potential power of fashion as a tool for fighting poverty in Africa by creating wealth through the empowerment of women and youths in the various fashion vocations through training, capacity building schemes, thereby supporting the Millennium Developing Goals (MDG) mission of halving global poverty by year 2020.

Other immensurable benefits he revealed was that the World Fashion Organisation has promised to establish a first World Fashion University and also build a first Africa World Class garment manufacturing plant in Nigeria.

In her contribution, the Africa Patron of World Fashion Organisation Dr. Mrs. Merit Gordon Obua said that the African Fashion Reception will be graced by 40 notable designers from Africa and 120 international fashion and textile designers across the world including buyers from the global community.  She added that it will bring about spirit of self reliance amongst our youths and such initiative will create millions of jobs across the continent for tailors, creative directors, Textile designers, models fashion photographers and writers.

The Director General of Bayelsa State Tourism Development Agency Mrs Ebize Ndiomu said Bayelsa State is excited and ready to host the world as this gives the opportunity to showcase to global world.

SOURCE : PR Nigeria

 http://prnigeria.com/2014/06/bayelsa-hosts-africa-fashion-reception/

BAYELSA PLANS TECHNICAL STUDY, ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION FOR KOLUAMA, OTHERS

26/06/2014

The Bayelsa State Government is to undertake technical studies of the entire coastline of the state and seek ways of collaborating with national and international stakeholders towards providing protection for Koluama in Southern Ijaw local government area and other communities impacted by environmental problems.

The resolution was taken at the 41^st session of the State Executive Council meeting in Government House, Yenagoa.

Briefing newsmen, shortly after the meeting, the Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Iniruo wills said, based on the report of the technical study, government would collaborate with national and international stakeholders to tackle the environmental problem.

According to Mr. Wills, council expressed concern over the ocean surge that is ravaging Koluama and resolved to visit the community to  accelerate government’s plan for the protection of coastal communities.

He also stated that, relevant government agencies would visit Koluama and other communities that are affected by erosion, noting that the koluama situation is a typical example of the environmental degradation confronting the people of the state.

His words: “We will visit Koluama and we will undertake technical studies of the entire coastline of Bayelsa and not to wait for another such incident to happen. We will undertake those studies and then based on the report, we will engage relevant national and international stakeholders to see how we can combat this menace.”

“The most urgent matter that the Executive Council discussed today has to do with the ocean surge that hit koluama a few days ago. The council expressed its concern and agreed to fast track its plan for the protection of coastal communities.

“In this bid, relevant agencies of government will visit not just Koluama, but other communities that are affected by erosion, because the koluama situation illustrates what our people and our communities have always been crying out about and other environmental degradation.”

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Local Government Administration, Chief Mitema Obordor remarked that, councilintroduced a policy directing all local government council chairmen to henceforth,  reside in their council headquarters to complement state government’s development efforts at the grassroots.

“We are reminded of the purpose of the creation of local governments to bring development to the grassroots. These functions cannot be effectively discharged if the chairmen are not in their respective local government areas. And so it was resolved in council today and hereby issued as government policy that all chairmen of councils must henceforth beresident in their local government headquarters. This the government will implement with effect from today.”

Briefing newsmen, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Barr. Kemasuode Wodu announced that, an anti corruption committee will be inaugurated soon and the ceremony will be witnessed by key officials of the Federal Government led by its Attorney General as well as  the chairmen of agencies such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC ) to assist in the area of training.

In their separate remarks, the Commissioner for Lands and Survey, Mr. Furoebi Akene and his counterpart in the Trade, Industry and Investment Ministry, Dr. Kemela Okara, said the state Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice and other judicial officers looked into the Land Use Act with a view to making issuance of C of O easier for prospective applicants in non-urban areas.

Responding to a question, Mr. Akene explained that, it would take 2 months for a C of O to be approved, as it is electronically produced.

Dr. Okara also expressed government’s intention to invest in the mortgage financing sector, stressing that, the present administration’s drive was to boost housing in the state to enable Bayelsans own houses, adding that the state investment and economic forum would take place from the 16th to 18^th of July for investors to explore investment  opportunities in the areas of power, agriculture, oil and gas, hospitality and tourism.

Daniel Iworiso-Markson

Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Bayelsa State

BDIC LONDON OFFICE SET FOR LAUNCH, AS GOV DICKSON EXPANDS ECONOMIC FRONTIERS OF BAYELSA

26/06/2014

As part of his administration’s continued efforts towards propagating the enormous investment potentials of the State as well as broaden the base of the state’s economy, Governor Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa State is to formally open the London headquarters of the Bayelsa Development and Investment Corporation (BDIC)

 The Governor will be leading a high powered delegation from the State to the event, which takes place at the proposed BDIC office; 13, Charles II street, London. SWIY SQU, United Kingdom will hold on Monday, 30^th of June, 2014.

Dr. Dalhatu Sarki Tafida, Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom is also expected to be at the helm of a 20-man delegation to the ceremony.

Also, to be in attendance are some members of the British parliament and representatives of the Westminster Africa Business Group.

The BDIC, which was established by law in August, 2012 is intended to attract the needed investors from strong economies of the world to Bayelsa State to invest in critical areas like tourism, agriculture, the maritime sector, among others.

The opening of the London office is also a fulfillment of Governor Dickson’s pronouncement during the launch of the African regional headquarters in Johannesburg last year, that an office of the corporation will be opened in London, United Kingdom and New York in the United States.

Daniel Iworiso-Markson

Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Bayelsa State

Board Members Blames Bayelsa SUBEB’s Poor Performance On Executive Secretary

Members of the Bayelsa State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) on Wednesday ‘entertained’ members of the state House of Assembly with the ‘dirty deals’ going on at the board.

The 24-member Assembly has been probing the crisis-ridden SUBEB and the problems that had led to the poor implementation of the state of emergency declared on education by the governor of the state, Seriake Dickson.

In the mild drama that played out on Wednesday, members of the board, in their submissions on the floor of the Assembly, heaped all the crises rocking the board on the head of the Executive Secretary, Walton Liverpool, an in-law of the governor.

The Assembly, presided over by Speaker Konbowei Benson, had last week during the ongoing probe, decried the deplorable state of education in the state, stressing that something was fundamentally wrong with the system.

Members of SUBEB, who were summoned on the floor of the Assembly, accused Liverpool of running the board like a sole administrator.

They lamented that Liverpool’s autocracy had rendered the board almost non-existent, alleging that he had usurped the functions of the board chairman.

They said Liverpool was carrying on as though the board never existed, adding that his actions had negated the objectives of the emergency declared on education by Dickson.

They said the board was never part of most of the activities and programmes including the employment and promotional interviews executed by the board.

Specifically, a member of the board, Austin Dressman, alleged that Liverpool was fond of going against the collective decision of members of the board.

Dressman said statutory board meetings were reduced by the Executive Secretary to fora to merely inform the members of SUBEB activities.

“The governor declared a state of emergency in education and in his wisdom appointed us to midwife and execute the programme. But the functions of this board are not being carried out,” he said.

Dressman, who said he had 30 years experience in management, flayed the attitude of Liverpool saying the board members had been rendered redundant.

Also, the Chairman of the Board, Florence William-Ebi, said she was relegated to the background by Liverpool.

She said, for example, she knew nothing about the ongoing promotional examination for teachers in the state until she got the information from outsiders.

“Virtually nothing is being done the way the law prescribed our existence. The board is not moving smoothly. Each time we meet, we always argue on issues. Even when we decide on something, another thing is implemented”, she said.

Liverpool, however, denied all the allegations and said all members of the board were involved in its management.

“It is not true that l am a sole administrator of the board. We have been meeting as recommended by the law”, he said.

- See more at: http://ghemedia.com/2014/06/26/board-members-blames-bayelsa-subebs-poor-performance-executive-secretary/#sthash.oZa2Z81m.dpuf

 SOURCE;: http://ghemedia.com/2014/06/26/board-members-blames-bayelsa-subebs-poor-performance-executive-secretary/#sthash.oZa2Z81m.dpuf

NEMA trains Bayelsa SEMA on disaster management

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), in continued effort to enhance the performance of States Emergency Management Agencies (SEMAs) in the South-South zone has conducted a special training for staff of the newly inaugurated Bayelsa SEMA on disaster management.

The training was designed to acquaint the participants with the basic skills for disaster management and disaster risk reduction.

Addressing the participants, the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa state, Admiral Gboribiogha John Jonah (rtd) appreciated the support from the National Emergency Management Agency to improve on the capacity of the staff to carry out their duties. He identified Bayelsa as one of the states with high incidence of disasters from oil exploration and other natural causes requiring appropriate skills and institutions to tackle such situations.

The Deputy Governor further emphasized the need for collaboration among all stakeholders in disaster management, regular interaction continuous capacity improvement of emergency workers to promote disaster risk reduction for efficient and effective protection of lives, properties and preservation of the environment.

The Director-General of NEMA, Alhaji Muhammad Sani Sidi, in his remarks delivered by the South South Zonal Coordinator Dr. Onimode Abdullahi Bandele identified the need for the State Governments to accord proper attention to issues of disaster management given the rising impacts of climate change and environmental degradation that have continued to result in serious emergencies across the globe.

He tasked the governments to also address various the causes of man-made disasters in their areas by evolving measures to protect the environment and promote community resilience.

The Director-General of NEMA further called on the states to take advantage of the structures and facilities available in the agency, to build the capacity of their agencies that have responsibilities of managing disasters.

Earlier, the Director-General of the Bayelsa State Emergency Management Agency, Lt. Col. Rowland Iyekoroghe (rtd) said, as a new agency it was requiring proper training and orientation on disaster management so as to equip the personnel with necessary skills. He then appreciated NEMA for coming to lay the right foundation for the agency.

The training covered areas on: Basic Principles of Disaster Management, Disaster Risk Reduction, Basic First Aid, Post Disaster/Needs Assessment, Coordination and Stakeholders’ Responsibility, Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation, Principles of Water Rescue, Community Preparedness Plan, and Basic Fire Fighting Technique.

At the end of the training workshop, certificates were presented to participants who were urged to take disaster management issues more seriously and to reduce hazards and vulnerability in the communities.

SOURCE; http://www.peoplesdailyng.com/nema-trains-bayelsa-sema-on-disaster-management/

Girl stabs 5-year-old to death in Bayelsa

A nine-year-old girl is being ques­tioned by the Bay­elsa State police command for stabbing a five-year-old girl to death in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.

The incident was said to have occurred on Monday at Igbogene, a suburb of Yena­goa during an argument be­tween the two minors.

Though residents are still in the dark over what triggered the argument, they observed that the girl grabbed a knife and stabbed the deceased, who died on the spot.

Checks indicated that res­idents, who heard the cry of the deceased rushed to the scene but efforts to save her were futile.

“The girl died on the spot. We all rushed to the scene of the incident after the victim let out a loud cry. When we got there, we saw her writh­ing in pains. But she was dead before we could help her,” a resident said.

Investigations revealed that the policemen driv­ing in a van stumbled on the scene and immediately arrested the older girl, but crowd of residents followed them to the police post in the community, demanding to give her jungle justice.

The Divisional Police Officer ( DPO) at Akenfa, who heard about the inci­dent immediately drafted a reinforcement of policemen to the community and the suspect was moved to the Akenfa Police Station.

“The crowd insisted that the girl must die the same way she killed her playmate. They surrounded the police post and mounted pressure on the policemen to pro­duce the suspect. They even threatened to burn the police post,” a Police source said.

The Commissioner of Po­lice, Mr Hilary Opara, who confirmed the incident said the two children were fight­ing when one stabbed the other.

He disclosed that the re­mains of the deceased had been deposited at the Fed­eral Medical Centre ( FMC) morgue while the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) is handling the inves­tigation.

 SOURCE. THE SUN

http://sunnewsonline.com/new/?p=69377

Bayelsa Woos Investors With Trade Free Zone

Bayelsa State is to establish two free trade zones to woo investors as the Seriake Dickson administration gets set to boost the economy of the riverine state.

Commissioner for Trade and Investment Kemela Okara said in Lagos yesterday that beyond the incentives, the legal framework that will enable investors – both foreign and local – to enjoy the benefit of their investment would be put in place.

To actualise this, the state will host an investment and economic forum in its capital Yenagoa between July 16 and 18.

Media Adviser to the Governor, Daniel Iworiso-Markson, said the state’s Internally General Revenue (IGR) has been boosted to N1billion monthly from a paltry N50milion raked in before the Dickson administration.

The target according to him is to move it up to N3billion.

The state is also set to build a 500-room hotel to boost tourism, which is one of the areas of comparative advantage. It has hosted major national and international entertainment events   

Okara said the theme of the forum, which is “unlocking Bayelsa’s growth potential,” is apt because of the boundless opportunities available for investors to take. These are to be showcased during the forum, he added.

According to him, “Bayelsa is looking for people to help us unlock our potentials especially in the area of agriculture. We produce rice which has a high grade grain, in large quantity.”

The commissioner said the government had in the last two years undertaken a great drive for infrastructure development including building roads between Yenagoa and the major towns which has opened it up and prepared it to host massive investment.

He said Bayelsa is also one of the safest places in the country, with a low crime rate, which also encourages investment.

“For every sector, we will ensure that all government and private sector stakeholders are present at the conference. The main incentive for investors is the free trade zone we are planning to establish. To establish a free trade zone, there will be non-application of local taxation,” said, adding: “The state has put a lot in place to host this conference in terms of infrastructure and developing Small and Medium scale Enterprises (SMEs). We want a sustainable development and partnership that works,” he said.

Special Adviser to the governor on Investment Cyril Akika and the Director General of the Bayelsa Investment Promotion Agency (BIPA) Freda Ruth Murray-Bruce were among the top officials with the commissioner.

Murray-Bruce listed five areas of opportunities to be exploited by investors who show interest in Bayelsa.

She listed the areas as oil and Gas, Agriculture, Technology and ICT, the hospitality business and power.

She said rice production and oil palm are the major agriculture areas that Bayelsa is gifted adding that Bayelsa boosts of over 200,000 kilometres of ocean front.

SOURCE; The Post

http://thepost-ng.com/bayelsa-woos-investors-with-trade-free-zone/#.U6xZ5PldVVI

Lagos, C/River, Bayelsa, Call For Full Implementation of Child Rights Act

— June 25, 2014

Chibuzor Ebere
Some states in the country, among them Lagos, Cross River and Bayelsa, have taken a critical look at the issues of Child Rights Acts as it is practiced in Nigeria, and pointed the ways forward to improve the rights of a child.
The states which are participating at the ongoing three-day programme designed to uphold the Child Rights Act in the country regretted that the issue is being treated with levity by state governments and called for an enduring policy that will uphold the right of a child in the country.

The programme, which is holding in Lagos, is funded by European Union(EU) under the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and in collaboration with Federal Government of Nigeria. Essentially, it is being organised to create a platform that would enable stakeholders discuss deeply how to implement Child Rights Laws.
In her welcome address,Vernice Guthrie, Project Coordinator of UNICEF urged participants to contribute to the issue hand by volunteering ideas that would ensure full implementation of the Act in Nigeria.
The theme of this year’s workshop is focused on the need to support the full implementation of Child Rights Act and establishment of family courts and other relevant institutions. It commenced on June 23rd, 2014 and is expected to end on June 27th, 2014.

Speaking at the workshop, the Lagos State representative, Hon. Justice Y. O.Idowu said that the problem of child trafficking or neglect of children is a major issue in Lagos State as everyday children keep trooping into the state.
Hon. Idowu noted that violence against children covers imaginable ground, citing some of the efforts of the Lagos state government to address these issues, especially in cases of rape.

She advised that children should be educated to know that nobody should tamper with them and that these campaigns should be taken to the market, schools, churches and mosques.
“I am gender friendly but the women must not be seen as sub-servants to their husband rather be submissive to enable to shun this evil act”, Hon. Idowu said.

She pointed out that people should look into the cultural aspect too; a case whereby a man is always entitled to the fattest portion of the meat while the remnants are meant for the children.
The Cross River State representative, Mr. Ikpi Otu, a deputy Chief Registrar, in his presentation said that the Cross River State Child Law was investigated in 2009. This law, she said includes rights of a child’s freedom of association, conscience, religion, discrimination and dignity, adding that the section 18 of the law the child is dealing with special protection and every child has responsibility over his parents , community and society.

Mr. Otu said under the same law, parents have their vital roles to play for the children’s responsibility as to providing the necessary things that would make them to be responsible to themselves and to the society at large.
The deputy Chief Registrar said everyone involved in acts like early marriage, genital mutilation, tattoo and marks has a fine to pay or imprisoned to serve for a number of years depending on the magnitude of the offence or abuse.

Deputy Director , Ministry of Justice Bayesian State , Mrs. Iyobosa E. Abulu ,who also spoke at the occasions said there is an establishment of Children and Young Person Club (CYPC) in the state but are divided into 10 parts.
She pointed out that there is peculiar thing about them because of their background, stressing that law covers any child that is involved in pregnancy to go back to school immediately after given birth and they have written to the school authority concerning such children.

Another if a child is living with an immoral mother that is a mother who is a prostitute, the child should remain s with the mother, the child should remains under the custody of the mother as the is not affected.
She added that most Bayelsa children are suffering from child right violation, adding that the State Government has resolved to bring perpetrators of such crimes to book.
“Again the Non Governmental Organisation needs to sensitize the women in Bayelsa State against any form of child right abuse.

SOURCE. http://theunion.com.ng/lagos-criver-bayelsa-call-for-full-implementation-of-child-rights-act/

Ekiti poll: Dickson, PDP, Ogboru call on Political Class to Emulate Fayemi

Th

The Governor of Bayelsa State, Mr. Seriake Dickson on Monday commended Governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi for his spormanship in conceding defeat in the Saturday election, describing him as a true democrat.

In a congratulatory message signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Daniel Iworiso-Markson, he noted that Fayemi's conduct was rare in the nation’s democracy and called on the political class to emulate him.

 He said: "Dr. Fayemi has by this singular action, endeared himself to every true believer in the nation’s democracy. He will remain a referent point for the political class in Nigeria, who hardly accept defeat.

 “He has simply proved that, he is different from the rest and posterity will remember him and even give him the opportunity to serve our nation, even at a higher capacity.”

Dickson described the peaceful conduct of the elections and the victory of Fayose as a victory for democracy and the people of the State.

The governor commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the transparent manner in which the election was conducted.

He also praised the people for the mature and peaceful manner they expressed themselves at the poll.

He described the mandate given to Mr. Fayose by the people of Ekiti State as well deserving.

The leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has also commended Governor Fayemi for conceding victory to Fayose, describing him as a true democrat.

The PDP commended him for the rare show of patriotism and sportsmanship by congratulating Fayose soon after he was announced the winner of the election.

It said in a statement by it's National Publicity, Olisa Metuh that, "This exceptional show of statesmanship has indeed earned Governor Fayemi the respect and admiration of Nigerians as a man of honour, a true democrat and a patriot.

"Governor Fayemi exhibited the spirit of sportsmanship propagated and practiced by the PDP and President Goodluck Jonathan."

The party called on politicians in the country to imbibe the same spirit and jettison all forms of bad loser syndrome especially ahead of the 2015 general elections.

The PDP commended Jonathan for what the party described as his insistence on free, fair and credible elections at all levels, saying that it is on record that the PDP and the President had never hesitated in congratulating other parties and their candidates whenever they win in an elections.

Thanking the people of Ekiti state and the entire nation for the massive support given to it, the PDP said its current leadership was committed to ensuring transparent and credible party primaries.

While calling on PDP stakeholders to work harder in this direction, the party said it would continue to provide a level playing ground for all Nigerians to genuinely pursue their aspirations in the overriding national interest.

Similarly, Chief Great Ogboru, the 2011 governorship candidate of the Democratic Peoples’ Party (DPP) in Delta State, tasked politicians to emulate the sportsmanship shown by Gov. Kayode Fayemi in the just concluded Ekiti governorship election.

He said in a statement in Lagos that Fayemi deserved praise for readily accepting the outcome of the election.

“While I congratulate Fayose, I commend Fayemi for his courage to readily accept the outcome of the election and also for his achievements as governor,” he said.

“Fayemi’s show of sportsmanship is uncommon in the nation’s polity.”

SOURCE,, WORLD STAGE

Bayelsa to Host World Business Leaders at Investment, Business Conference

The Bayelsa State Government  said it has concluded plans to host global business leaders at its maiden investment and economic forum.

The investment forum tagged: “Bayelsa State Investment and Economic Forum,” has as its theme: “Unlocking Bayelsa State’s Economic Potential.”

The state Commissioner for Commerce, Trade and Investment, Kemela Okara, said yesterday in Lagos that  the main incentive for investors wishing to invest in the state was a free trade zone, which the state was planning,  noting  that there would be non application of local taxation in the free trade zone.

Okara added that that government would ensure that stakeholders in the public and private sectors are present at the conference and promised that all the legal framework that would accommodate and protect all business interests of potential investors would be taken care of.
Also, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Seriake Dickson, Mr. Daniel Iworiso-Markson, said the present  administration in the state has raised the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) from N50million to N1 billion monthly. He stated that the goal of the state government was to raise the IGR  to N3billion.

Furthermore, Iworiso-Markson  said the state had put a lot in place to host the conference in terms of infrastructure and  developing Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMEs).

“We want a sustainable development and partnership that work. More so, we are now targeting N6billion as IGR per month in the next few years. This can only be achieved by inviting investors, both foreign and domestic investors to invest. We hope to be self-sustainable, not depending on oil and not depending on monthly allocation.
“Like my governor would say, we are not looking for contractors but developers.
All unique opportunities in Bayelsa State would be articulated at the conference and it won’t be a regular talk-show,” he said.

Speaking on the forth coming conference, the Director General of the Bayelsa Investment Promotion Agency (BIPA), Freda Ruth Murray-Bruce  said there were five areas of opportunities to be exploited by investors, who would show interest in Bayelsa.

She listed the areas as oil and gas, agriculture, technology and ICT, the hospitality business and power.

SOURCE; THE SUN

http://sunnewsonline.com/new/?p=69266

Bayelsa Commits N150bn To Agge Deep Seaport

Governor of Bayelsa State Hon. Seriake Dickson on Monday said, government has committed N150 billion for the development of the Agge Deep seaport in Ekeremor local government area of the state in its quest to diversify the economy.

The governor, who stated this during the state PDP Executive Committee meeting at the party secretariat in Yenagoa, noted that the move was geared towards creating wealth through the expansion of its infrastructural base.

According to Governor Dickson, government will soon launch a small and medium enterprises loan scheme and an Entrepreneurial Training Institute for Bayelsans, who are desirous of doing business as the process of acquiring certificate of occupancy has been computerized.

He urged the people of the state to shun any form of violence and be wary of those he described as agents of destabilization, stressing that, peace and security are achievements the people should cherish, as no meaningful development can take place in the absence of peace.

'There is no PDP Executive, that has this peace and tranquility. We appreciate the cohesion that you have and the cordial relationship that you have with other organs of the party.

'I want to also appreciate the state House of Assembly and its leadership. Since the inauguration of this present assembly, there has been no bickering like some time past.

'I want to thank you all and our leaders for being available, whenever your assistance and input is needed in critical state matters, stressing the allegiance and support to higher authority is commendable,' he remarked.

In his remarks, the state chairman of the party, retired Col. Sam Inokoba  described Governor Dickson as a great mobilizer, who has the vision to take Bayelsa to the next level.

He commended the governor for being a loyal party man, who has carried every member along, adding that, the meeting was a memorable one as old executive members from 1998 were in attendance, stating that the event was a demonstration of internal democracy in the party.

In his contribution, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Konbowei Benson, said the party has done creditably well, considering the level of infrastructural and manpower development.

Highpoint of the meeting was the vote of confidence passed on Governor Dickson for his massive infrastructural transformation as well as President Goodluck Jonathan's administration, endorsing him for re-election in 2015.

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

Bayelsa State Elders Hail Achievements Of Governor Dickson And President Jonathan

Elders, community and traditional leaders in Bayelsa State say Governor, Seriake Dickson’s drive to build capacity and development in the state has touched every section of the state.

Speaking at an interactive session in Government House, Yenogoa, the elders commended Governor Dickson for creating success for both the federal and state governments.

The elders largely drawn from the ruling People's Democratic Party met with Governor Seriake Dickson in government house and expressed their gratitude to him for changing the face of Bayelsa. They held a closed-door meeting and came up with a communiqué in support of President Goodluck Jonathan in the fight against insurgency in the Northeast.

Thompson Okorotie, Elder Stateman, said, "The forum noted the commitment of the President to stop all forms of insurgency in the northeast zone and other security challenges across the country. They therefore call on all northern leaders and Nigerians to join hands with the President to bring this insurgency to an end."

Werinipre Seibarugu, former Deputy Governor, Bayelsa State, said, "The governor has made so many efforts and has succeeded in bringing every group together to work as a team to deliver PDP in Bayelsa state and Nigeria."

The Bayelsa elders further commended Governor Dickson for bringing everyone together and projecting a united front for success at the federal and state levels.

Thompson Okorotie that the governor is running an all inclusive government."

George Fente, Former Political Adviser, Bayelsa, said, "His Excellency, the governor has tried politically, infrastructurally and trying to bring every elder together so that we must talk with one voice."

The forum also commended Ekiti governor elect, Ayodele Fayose for recording a resounding victory at the polls.

SOURCE. AIT

 See more at: http://www.aitonline.tv/post-bayelsa_state_elders_hail_achievements_of_governor_dickson_and_president_jonathan#sthash.wCfF2TEs.dpuf

Bayelsa Disburses N450 Million to Scholarship Students in UK

Bayelsa State government disclosed at the weekend that it had disbursed £1million (N250million) and another tranche of N200million to the state scholarship board for onward transmission to scholars on its scholarship studying in the United Kingdom.

A statement by Governor Seriake Dickson's Chief Press Secretary,Daniel Iworiso-Markson, said the disbursement was in fulfilment of the governor's pledge to the students during his interaction with them in London penultimate week.

It was gathered that governor's visit and subsequent release of the monies were occasioned by the students' grumblings about non-payment of their fees and upkeep allowances.

Some of the students were said to have sent 'save our soul messages' to some influencial personalities in the corridors of power in Yenagoa asking them to prevail on the government to save them from suffering.

The statement reaffirmed the government's commitment to continue to fulfill its scholarship obligations to Bayelsans in different parts of the world.

It noted with satisfaction the exemplary conduct of the UK based students stressing that they were a pride to the state.

It explained that despite the dwindling finances of the government, it would continue to make regular remittances to the students.

It also urged the students to take their studies seriously to justify government's huge financial investment.

It assured that the Dickson administration would continue to make massive investments in the education because of the manpower requirements of the state and the pivotal role education plays in the overall development of the human being.

It also restated government's preparedness to fulfill an earlier promise to pay the bursaries for Bayelsa students in higher institutions of learning in the country, saying the payments would commence at the end of this month.

SOURCE. Daily Independent

http://allafrica.com/stories/201406240089.html

2015: Toppling Jonathan Will Mark End Of Nigeria – Ijaw Youth Council

 June 24, 2014

The Ijaw Youth Congress (IYC) has warned that any attempt to topple the administration of President Goodluck Jonathan will mark the end of Nigeria.

The umbrella body for the Ijaws gave this warning during their national convention at Ofunama community in Ovia South West local government area of Edo State also bemoaned the gas flaring at Gelegele community and called on the various governments to either relocate the community or relocate the flaring site.

It also declared that any attempt to cripple President Jonathan’s administration will mark the end of Nigeria.

Spokesman for the council, Mr. Eric Omare said: “At the Convention, Ijaw youths took critical decision that affect the well-being of the Ijaw people and the Niger-Delta in general. Firstly, the Ijaw youths condemn the continue flaring of gas in Gelegele community”.

“The Gelegele people have been in this condition for more than decades, their health and social life is grossly affected. Some of them can’t sleep anymore. We condemn this and we have resolved government at the state and federal level must take drastic step either they relocate the Gelegele community or relocate the flare .

SOURCE; Leadership

http://leadership.ng/news/375662/2015-toppling-jonathan-will-mark-end-nigeria-ijaw-youth-council