FLASH BACK: INAUGURATION OF THE BAYELSA NEW MEDIA TEAM ONE YEAR AGO ""7th July 2012""

INAUGURATION OF BAYELSA NEW MEDIA TEAM

 Central Coordinating Committee

 

July7, 2012 at Government House Banquet Hall, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Nigeria.

 

ADDRESS OF THE CHAIRMAN

His Excellency,

Rt. Hon. Henry Seriake Dickson

The Governor of Bayelsa State.

 

Distinguished Dignitaries

Our Distinguished Awardees

Ladies and Gentlemen,

 

 It is my utmost privilege to be able to stand before your distinguished presence to accept on behalf of the central coordinating committee of the Bayelsa State New Media team the honor done us by this invitation to serve in the designated capacities.

 

I wish to pledge our unalloyed loyalty to Bayelsa State and its people first, then to the Nigerian people and to humanity in the discharge of our duties.

 

The new media team is designed to be an instrument of peace, good governance and transparency the basic ingredients for accountable society. We shall strive individually and collectively to achieve these ideals.

 

The new media is a convergence of the traditional media with high interactive power that allows it to serve as a good tool for  information, feedback, reaction, correction, evaluation all basic building blocks for accountability and good governance.

 

I know there are still those who would query the social media relevance. The records bear us out in this instance. The social media use reached its zenith during the April general Elections of 2011 as well as the Governorship elections that brought our dear Governor Henry Seriake Dickson to Power in Bayelsa State. We all know how difficult it was for anyone to campaign against an incumbent especially where the Famoutangbe was involved. But the social media kept the restoration Mantra resounding in our minds until we cast our votes massively for him.

 

TIME LINE OF ACHIEVEMENTS OF SOCIAL MEDIA IN BAYELSA STATE

 

In essence, the face of the social media during the campaigns contributed:

*Ideological foundations for policy anchorage

* Direction for defining the restoration Agenda

*Building blocks for mass participation and grassroots support.

 

*After winning the Bayelsa State governorship election of February 14, the social Media had come handy in sharpening the policy focus for it provided for a testing ground for advance reactions to impending policy issues. The number of Facebook pages has tripled within the period, an indication of its popularity amongst Bayelsans

 

* Recall too that on May 2, Social Media practitioners gathered for the first time since the Bayelsa State elections in Port Harcourt to click glasses evaluate progress and share awards while inaugurating two committees to work out modalities for engaging the Restoration government of Bayelsa State to achieve election promises.

 

*May 14-15 saw the participation of Bayelsa State delegates in the first African New Media and Governance Conference at the Shehu Yar Adua Centre Abuja. The direct outcome was the resolution of practitioners to come together to form the  Bayelsa New Media Team aimed at forging unity amongst practitioners to achieve post election goals of cooperating to achieve good governance in the State by working closely with the SSA to Gov HSD on Social Media and Reasearch Comrade John Idumange. Within just 2 months of creating a unified BAYELSA NEW MEDIA TEAM Facebook page and blog, we receive over a thousand visitors a day with over 400 likes and about 100 emails a day.

 

CHALLENGES

 

With the unification of social media platforms in and around the State,we have built a solid platform to help them  work pointedly for public good. It has not been without challenges though. These include:

• Lack of funds
• Lack of office space or communication hub
• Dearth of new media tools such as Computers, Blackberry and other devices
• Logistic difficulties
• Lack of Government support
• Inadequate participation of Bayelsa Grassroots population

 

CALL FOR GOVERNMENT ASSISTANCE

Owing to the sharp limitation to our capacity to deliver on these desirable goals we would like to use this opportunity to solicit for government assistance in these areas:

 

         *Provision of ICT infrastructure

         *Procurement of an office space which would serve the State as Communication hub

         *Provision of logistics support

         *Provision of New Media Tools

OUR PLEDGE

We pledge to work closely with the government to achieve the restoration Agenda of the Bayelsa State government of Gov. Henry Seriake Dickson.

CONCLUSION

      We would like to use this opportunity once again to thank our foremost agent of change, His Excellency Governor Henry Seriake Dickson for appointing John Idumange as SSA on Social Media and Research : we pledge to work closely with him as we have always done to achieve the lofty goals set down by this pace setting administration in Bayelsa State.

 

 

 

LONG LIVE BAYELSA STATE!

 

LONG LIVE NIGERIA!

 

 

NWOKEDI NWORISARA

CHAIRMAN

CENTRAL COORDINATING COMMITTEE

BAYELSA NEW MEDIA TEAM

Chairman BNMT Mr Nworisara receives certificate from the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State,RTD Rear Admiral Gboribiogha Jonah

Playing the National Anthem

SSA to the Governor on Social Media and Research Hon John Idumange delivering his Paper

The Audience

The Audience

FLASH BACK: INAUGURATION OF THE BAYELSA NEW MEDIA TEAM ONE YEAR AGO ""7th July 2012""

INAUGURATION OF BAYELSA NEW MEDIA TEAM

 Central Coordinating Committee

 

July7, 2012 at Government House Banquet Hall, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Nigeria.

 

ADDRESS OF THE CHAIRMAN

His Excellency,

Rt. Hon. Henry Seriake Dickson

The Governor of Bayelsa State.

 

Distinguished Dignitaries

Our Distinguished Awardees

Ladies and Gentlemen,

 

 It is my utmost privilege to be able to stand before your distinguished presence to accept on behalf of the central coordinating committee of the Bayelsa State New Media team the honor done us by this invitation to serve in the designated capacities.

 

I wish to pledge our unalloyed loyalty to Bayelsa State and its people first, then to the Nigerian people and to humanity in the discharge of our duties.

 

The new media team is designed to be an instrument of peace, good governance and transparency the basic ingredients for accountable society. We shall strive individually and collectively to achieve these ideals.

 

The new media is a convergence of the traditional media with high interactive power that allows it to serve as a good tool for  information, feedback, reaction, correction, evaluation all basic building blocks for accountability and good governance.

 

I know there are still those who would query the social media relevance. The records bear us out in this instance. The social media use reached its zenith during the April general Elections of 2011 as well as the Governorship elections that brought our dear Governor Henry Seriake Dickson to Power in Bayelsa State. We all know how difficult it was for anyone to campaign against an incumbent especially where the Famoutangbe was involved. But the social media kept the restoration Mantra resounding in our minds until we cast our votes massively for him.

 

TIME LINE OF ACHIEVEMENTS OF SOCIAL MEDIA IN BAYELSA STATE

 

In essence, the face of the social media during the campaigns contributed:

*Ideological foundations for policy anchorage

* Direction for defining the restoration Agenda

*Building blocks for mass participation and grassroots support.

 

*After winning the Bayelsa State governorship election of February 14, the social Media had come handy in sharpening the policy focus for it provided for a testing ground for advance reactions to impending policy issues. The number of Facebook pages has tripled within the period, an indication of its popularity amongst Bayelsans

 

* Recall too that on May 2, Social Media practitioners gathered for the first time since the Bayelsa State elections in Port Harcourt to click glasses evaluate progress and share awards while inaugurating two committees to work out modalities for engaging the Restoration government of Bayelsa State to achieve election promises.

 

*May 14-15 saw the participation of Bayelsa State delegates in the first African New Media and Governance Conference at the Shehu Yar Adua Centre Abuja. The direct outcome was the resolution of practitioners to come together to form the  Bayelsa New Media Team aimed at forging unity amongst practitioners to achieve post election goals of cooperating to achieve good governance in the State by working closely with the SSA to Gov HSD on Social Media and Reasearch Comrade John Idumange. Within just 2 months of creating a unified BAYELSA NEW MEDIA TEAM Facebook page and blog, we receive over a thousand visitors a day with over 400 likes and about 100 emails a day.

 

CHALLENGES

 

With the unification of social media platforms in and around the State,we have built a solid platform to help them  work pointedly for public good. It has not been without challenges though. These include:

• Lack of funds
• Lack of office space or communication hub
• Dearth of new media tools such as Computers, Blackberry and other devices
• Logistic difficulties
• Lack of Government support
• Inadequate participation of Bayelsa Grassroots population

 

CALL FOR GOVERNMENT ASSISTANCE

Owing to the sharp limitation to our capacity to deliver on these desirable goals we would like to use this opportunity to solicit for government assistance in these areas:

 

         *Provision of ICT infrastructure

         *Procurement of an office space which would serve the State as Communication hub

         *Provision of logistics support

         *Provision of New Media Tools

OUR PLEDGE

We pledge to work closely with the government to achieve the restoration Agenda of the Bayelsa State government of Gov. Henry Seriake Dickson.

CONCLUSION

      We would like to use this opportunity once again to thank our foremost agent of change, His Excellency Governor Henry Seriake Dickson for appointing John Idumange as SSA on Social Media and Research : we pledge to work closely with him as we have always done to achieve the lofty goals set down by this pace setting administration in Bayelsa State.

 

 

 

LONG LIVE BAYELSA STATE!

 

LONG LIVE NIGERIA!

 

 

NWOKEDI NWORISARA

CHAIRMAN

CENTRAL COORDINATING COMMITTEE

BAYELSA NEW MEDIA TEAM

Chairman BNMT Mr Nworisara receives certificate from the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State,RTD Rear Admiral Gboribiogha Jonah

Playing the National Anthem

SSA to the Governor on Social Media and Research Hon John Idumange delivering his Paper

The Audience

The Audience

NIGERIA MATERNAL MORTALITY RATE DROPS BY 30% IN 4 YEARS ....PRESIDENT JONATHAN

28/06/2013

NIGERIA MATERNAL MORTALITY RATE DROPS BY 30% IN 4 YEARS ....PRESIDENT JONATHAN

 

President Goodluck Jonathan says the nation’s maternal mortality rate has dropped by 30% in the last four years.

 

Also, commenting on the achievements of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), the Bayelsa State Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson expressed his readiness to collaborate with the Federal Government and its Agencies, noting that arrangement has been concluded to sign the Bayelsa State Health Insurance Scheme Bill already passed by the State House of Assembly into law.

 

Speaking at the official commissioning of a 40-bed Comprehensive Cottage Hospital in Otuoke, Ogbia local government area of Bayelsa state on Friday, the President put the nation’s current maternal mortality rate at 350 as against 500 deaths per one hundred thousand women recorded in 2008.

 

He added that the present administration would not relent in its efforts at attaining the MDGs target of 250 per one hundred thousand women by 2015.

 

Restating his commitment to the Millennium Development Goals, (MDGs), especially in the Health sector, the President said all hands would be on deck at ensuring that the nation achieves its MDGs objectives in all the sectors by 2015.

 

“I recall that the construction of this model hospital began in 2006 as an initiative of the Bayelsa state government, but it was later taken over by the Millennium Development Goals office in collaboration with the Bayelsa State Government. It is most gratifying to come and witness not only its completion but its formal commissioning today.

 

All this have been made possible by the hard work, diligence and perseverance of all the stakeholders.

 

Nigeria, a great country is faced with a number of developmental challenges, which we have tried to confront since inception of this administration two years ago. We embarked on reforms of several sectors of our national economy with a single-minded commitment and determination.

 

I am glad to declare that we are making significant progress in all sectors, as it’s evident for all to see. The health sector as you are all aware is a cardinal priority of our transformation agenda. Attainment of the universal health coverage as well as provision of comprehensive health care for all our citizens is a goal we have set for ourselves”.

 

“Today’s commissioning event, therefore, not only underscores this commitment, it also represents yet another milestone in our drives towards actualizing the health related components of the MDGs. This model Cottage Hospital is well equipped with 40 beds facility with a well equipped laboratory, surgical theatre, Emergency and casualty ward, two blocks of staff quarters, administrative block and a morgue.

 

“I welcome the collaboration between the Bayelsa State government and the Federal government which has made today’s event a reality. I urge the government and the people of the state to consolidate this collaboration.

 

“Let me use this unique opportunity to tell Nigerians that as a government we are working extremely hard to meet up our Millennium Development Goals. As at 2008, we had 500 deaths of every one hundred thousand women that give birth to children. As at now we have reduced that to 350. The target for the Millennium Development Goals is 250 and God willing before the end of 2015, we will get that.

 

 

 

While urging the state government to take ownership of the health facility to ensure sustainability of the project, President Jonathan admonished that government would not site projects in communities where such properties are not guarded and protected by the people.

 

Corroborating the views of the President, Governor Dickson described the hospital project as a product of the collaboration between the Federal and State governments.

 

He said his administration is currently building five referral hospitals as well as General hospitals in all the local governments in addition to several health centres to boost healthcare delivery in the state.

 

His words, as you have been earlier informed, this is the product of the collaboration between Federal and state governments. And that is the way it should be, because we cannot be in competition. We complement the Federal government. The facilities here are excellent. I have received briefings that the facilities installed here are second to none. We are very grateful to you, (Mr. President)’

 

In his remarks, the Minister of Health, Professor Onyebuchi Chukwu said land would be acquired to build a School of Midwifery to complement the efforts toward achieving the MDGs.

 

In her welcome address, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on MDGs, Dr. Precious Gbeneol said, the health facility was funded under the Conditional Grant Scheme of the MDGs and is well equipped to serve the health needs of the people.

2013 OLYMPIC DAY: GOV DICKSON STRESSES NEED FOR FUNCTIONAL SPORTS FACILITIES IN SCHOOLS

29/06/2013

2013 OLYMPIC DAY: GOV DICKSON STRESSES NEED FOR FUNCTIONAL SPORTS FACILITIES IN SCHOOLS

 

The Bayelsa State Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson has stressed the need to encourage youths at the grass root level through the provision of functional sporting facilities and equipment at both primary and secondary schools in the state.

 

Governor Dickson also urged the youths to participate actively and take keen interest in sports as a way of promoting healthy living as well as a source of youth empowerment.

 

Represented by the Deputy Governor, Retired Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John Jonah, Governor Dickson stated this at the 2013 Olympic Day Celebration, which had earlier featured 10, 5 and 2 kilometre races along the Chief Melford Okilo highway between Opolo junction and the Samson Siasia Stadium in the State Capital.

 

The Governor called on individuals and corporate bodies to assist government in developing sports to place Bayelsa at the apex of the sporting arena at national and international levels

 

According to him, the establishment of the senatorial sports stadia by the present administration was to revive sports at the local government level and help address problems such as unemployment and youths restiveness.

 

Governor Dickson, who observed that the state ought to have comparative advantage in swimming considering its riverine nature, decried the inability of the state to produce world class athletes in that area.

 

Speaking at the event, the Commissioner of Sports Development, Chief Mitema Obodor, commended Governor Dickson for consistently demonstrating its commitment to sports development especially his approval of the establishment of local government sports committees, which among others is to sensitize the people at the grass root level on the need to encourage and participate regularly in sporting activities.

 

Commenting on the U-17 Youth Games scheduled for Abuja later in the year, the Commissioner said preparations by the state contingent are in top gear and expressed optimism that with the support of the government, the athletes would make the state proud.

 

In his remarks, President of the International Olympic Committee, Jacques Rogge, said the Olympic Day Celebration was a day set aside to bring the value of sports to sensitize people on sports all over the world as regards youth development and empowerment.

 

Represented by Mrs. Deborah Chidiobi, Mr. Rogge noted that Nigeria is recognized as one of the sporting nations of the world.

 

Highpoint of the event was the presentation of certificates to Governor Seriake Dickson, the deputy Governor, Retired Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John Jonah, Speaker of the State House of Assembly and former Deputy Governor, Mr. Peremobowei Ebebi as well as presentation of a cash award of N50,000 to the Commissioner of Transport, Mrs. Marie Ebikake by the Ministry of Sports for starting and finishing the 10 kilometre section of the race.

  

The theme of this year’s celebration was, “Fitness For Life.”

  

  

BAYELSA GOVT COMMENDS SECURITY OPERATIVES OVER ARREST OF CULT KINGPIN …….restates commitment to fight cultism and other related vices

02/07/2013

BAYELSA GOVT COMMENDS SECURITY OPERATIVES OVER ARREST OF CULT KINGPIN

…….restates commitment to fight cultism and other related vices

 

Bayelsa State Government says the arrest and detention of an alleged leader of a notorious cult group; Mr. Nengi Ikiba would serve as a deterrent to his likes, stating that its declaration of war against cultism and other related vices has begun to yield dividend.

 

Describing the arrest of Ikiba as a welcome development, the State Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson said his administration would not condone any act of criminality.

 

Commending the efforts of the Police and other security operatives in the state, the Governor disclosed that the government is investing heavily on security, adding this is the only way to attract both local and foreign investors to the state.

 

The arrest of Ikiba, according to the Governor has nothing to do with his political aspiration of becoming the President of the Ijaw Youth Council as it is being insinuated in some quarters.

 

According to him, people should stop playing politics with the lives of the people. “This is the man that has made a confessional statement to the Police on his alleged role in the killing of innocent people in the state.

 

This administration will not abhor criminals no matter highly placed such persons may be. Our dragnet is everywhere. You can no longer commit crime and go scot free again in Bayelsa”

 

Ikiba has admitted to be the founder of the ICELANDERS Cult group in Rivers State and later the GREENLANDERS in Bayelsa and after he fell apart with some members of the ICELANDERS group he had recruited due to some irreconcilable differences.

 

You don’t empower people with guns but with sustainable means of income. Earlier this month, (June), over 11,000 youths from all the eight local government areas of the state renounced cultism. This is a welcome development. We are ready to collaborate with the youths and liberate them from a life of dependency.

 

 If we do not help to build you all, then our future will not be assured. You are all aware of what our Restoration Government is doing; building schools, roads, hospitals, investing in security and making our state safe, talking to people to come here to invest so that we can create jobs for you”

“All of these will come to nothing, if we don’t help to equip you with the skills that you need to partake in the economy to protect our future.

“This exercise is not the end but just the beginning, by the time my team concludes the verification exercise and they will do it in a detailed way, local government by local government.

“When we are through with all of these, we are going to engage you in a special youth empowerment programme. A total of 10,000 youths will be engaged”

 

 

Signed

 

Lt. Col. Bernard Sunday Kenibai (Rtd.)

Special Adviser to the Governor of Bayelsa State on Security Matters

BAYELSA GOVT READS RIOT ACT TO PARENTS, INSISTS IYC PRESIDENTIAL ASPIRANT HAS CASE TO ANSWER

03/07/2013

Bayelsa State Government has threatened that any parent caught in the
act of promoting violence in any related criminal activities through
their children or wards will be dealt with in accordance with the law.
This is just as it insists that a leader of a notorious cult group;
Mr. Nengi Ikiba presently in the custody of the State Police Command
has a criminal case to answer.
Noting the disposition of the present administration to crimes and
criminality and the enactment of anti-cultism law, the State Governor,
Hon. Seriake Dickson said that whoever caught aiding and abetting
crimes, no matter how highly placed will be dealt with in accordance
with the law.
Ikiba, a leader of a notorious cult group is being investigated for
his alleged involvement in the killing of innocent souls in the State
and if found guilty will face the music.
He said, as the Chief Security Officer, my constitutional
responsibilities include; the protection of lives and property. I will
not fold my arms and allow one disgruntled element to derail our fast
moving developmental train”
“During the signing of the anti-cultism bill into law, I made it known
in my address that as parents we have a role to play, especially in
the training of our children. This administration will not tolerate
any act of indiscipline in whatever forms.
“For somebody to have made a confessional statement to the police on
his alleged role in the killing of innocent people in the state and
some people for reasons best known to them are now weeping up
sentiments, all in the name of politics. It portends danger for the
future of the state.
‘If we allow this particular case to be swept under the carpet, what
moral lesson are we passing on to upcoming generations? I have said it
at different fora that you can play politics with any other things but
not with human lives.
‘Let me use this opportunity to warn parents, this administration will
not condone any act of indiscipline. Any person caught, irrespective
of ages or status promoting violence through any means will be made to
face music.
‘Bayelsa is no longer haven for criminals. That era is gone. Our
dragnet is everywhere. You can no longer commit crime and go scot free
again in Bayelsa”
The State Police Command on Tuesday paraded ikiba before newsmen for
his alleged involvement in the killings of innocent souls in some
parts of the State.
The Bayelsa Police Commissioner, Mr. Tonye Ebitibituwa said the nature
and gravity of the alleged crime of the suspect is such that the he
cannot be arraigned in Court within the time frame except gone through
the process of first filling information before the Court.
According to him, ‘it is not in our character in the Bayelsa State
Police Command to flout any order of a Court of competent
jurisdiction. The Police and the Judiciary in the State have had
robust relationship which cannot be broken. In compliance with the
Federal High Court, the Police have initiated the process of his
arraignment in the Court by filing information which has been served
on the suspect since Thursday, June 27, 2013.

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.

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

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. 

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. 

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”.

(PHOTO 1)

Bayelsa State Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson (left) presenting a bank draft for the sum of five hundred and eight million naira (N508m) to the Managing Director of Messrs Sivan D.S Ltd, Mr.Shay Cheruty (right) shortly after signing an MOU with the company for the state Geographic Information System (BGIS) at Government House in Yenagoa

FLOODING IN PARTS OF YENAGOA: BAYELSA GOVT WARNS LAND DEVELOPERS AGAINST BUILDING ON NATURAL DRAINS

23/05/2013
FLOODING IN PARTS OF YENAGOA: BAYELSA GOVT WARNS LAND DEVELOPERS AGAINST BUILDING ON NATURAL DRAINS

In a clear demonstration of concern over flooding affecting some residents of Yenagoa as a result of ongoing road construction works, the state Deputy Governor, Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John Jonah has undertaken an assessment tour of some of the affected parts of the town.

Speaking to newsmen at the end of the tour, the Deputy Governor assured the people that government would put palliative measures in place to lessen their sufferings.

While appealing to the affected residents to show understanding and cooperate with government by clearing their drainages to make for free flow of water, Rear Admiral John Jonah assured them that government was doing everything possible to address the problem.

He directed the commissioner for works and infrastructure and other relevant ministries as well as agencies to work closely with the various contractors to create temporary channels to drain out water from the affected areas.

Describing the landform of Yenagoa and its environs as very low, the Deputy Governor observed that though it is difficult to completely prevent flooding in the meantime, the present administration would engage the services of technical experts to carry out relevant baseline studies with a view to constructing major drainages within the town.

Rear Admiral John Jonah however, warned the people to resist the temptation of building on natural drainages, stating that henceforth, government will not hesitate to deal decisively with those who flout the already existing land development and town planning laws.

“The drainage problem has been a persistent one because people build on areas that they are not supposed to. We have seen some channels that people have built across, thereby obstructing the flow of water. It does not encourage sustainable development and so we will do everything we can to put a stop to that within the confines of existing urban and town planning laws.

“Bayelsans should also help us; you don’t need to dump garbage on drainage path because if you do that your house will be flooded. There are areas we have identified that need immediate intervention for water to flow. But we recall that Yenagoa is a very low line area. And so to avoid flooding totally would be a very difficult task but the report on the areas that we should open up has already been submitted. Having seen the areas with the concerned commissioners by myself, I am going to write a memo to the Governor to make sure the areas are opened up as a temporary measure for water to flow. ”

The Deputy Governor, who visited Azikoro, Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN/Osiri in Ekeki, Isaac Boro roads was accompanied by the Commissioner of Works and Infrastructure, Mr. Lawrence Ewrudjakpo, Capital City Development, Mr. Zuwa Konugah, Information and Orientation, Markson Fefegha, Lands and Survey, Furoebi Akene and Special Projects, Fred Obuah.

Others are, Commissioner for Health, Dr. Anapurere Awoli, Chief of Staff Government House, Chief Diekivie Ikiogha and Executive Secretary of Capital City Development Authority, Chief Iboro Ige-Idaba.

BAYELSA GOVT RECEIVES SURVEY PLAN FOR AGGE DEEP SEAPORT

21/05/2013

The Survey report of the proposed Agge Deep Seaport in Ekeremor Local
Government Area of Bayelsa State has been presented to the state
Government by the Nigerian Army Engineers.
The Deep Sea Port is to occupy an area of about eight thousand
hectares, which is an increase from the initial seven thousand
proposed for the facility.
Speaking after receiving the Survey report in Government House,
Yenagoa, Governor Seriake Dickson said the plan by the administration
to build a world class Deep Seaport in the State was now on course.
His words, “Today, my dear people of Bayelsa State, you are now seeing
in real terms, our plans to transform our economy beyond Oil and Gas.
And, I have always said that, we are going to spare no effort in
utilizing the maritime endowments of the state.
“Our decision to build a world class deep sea port is now on course.
What you are seeing today is the beginning of a long journey. I know
we still have a long way to go before we have a deep sea port, but
then we have started”.
Hon. Dickson, who noted that the surveyed area extended over fifteen
hectares of land, directed the Commissioner of Land and Survey to
begin the process of enumeration as well as computation of the claims
and entitlements of the owners of the affected areas, to enable
government commence the payment of adequate, fair and prompt
compensations as required by law.
He commended the Nigerian Army Engineering Corps for the professional
manner it undertook the assignment and expressed delight with the
partnership, noting that it was the beginning of what will become a
mutually beneficial relationship.
“This is just the beginning of what will be a mutually beneficial long
term relationship and partnership”, Governor Dickson assured the
Nigerian Army.
He used the occasion to commend the Chief of Army Staff, for
diligently carrying out his duties at such a critical stage in the
nation’s nascent democracy, describing him as a loyal and hard working
officer.
Earlier, the Commander, Engineers Corps, Nigerian Army, Major General
Funso Owonibi noted that, the assignment has been rewarding, adding
that the hydrographic Survey of the proposed deep seaport will soon be
completed and presented to government.
General Owonibi expressed appreciation to the state government for the
confidence reposed in the Nigerian Army Corps of Engineers, stating
that the Army Engineers were carrying out other engineering related
assignments in Abia, Anambra and Delta States.

GOV DICKSON WANTS BAYELSA PROFESSIONALS ABROAD TO INVEST IN THE STATE AND SUPPORT DEVELOPMENTAL EFFORTS OF GOVT

21/05/2013

Bayelsans in the diaspora have been urged to come back home and explore the enormous potentials of the State by investing in various sectors of the State’s economy.

They have also been told to apply the knowledge acquired during their sojourn abroad to support the developmental efforts of Government as well assist in developing their communities.

Governor Seriake Dickson who made the call while inauguration a 25-member Diaspora Mobilisation and Contact Committee in Government House, Yenagoa, noted that Bayelsa is in a hurry to develop and attain enviable heights in all critical sectors of human endeavour.

He therefore charged the committee to encourage diaspora professionals to partner with government in bringing about the needed human capacity and infrastructural development in the state.

“We have come to the stage in our development that we want to mobilise the resources of our people because our human resources are the most important resources at our disposal. Earlier, in the life of this administration, we knew that we were going to get to this point. That was why I appointed the Chairman of this Committee, Mr. Charles Preye Zuofa, as Senior Special Assistant on Diaspora Mobilization. But I knew that just appointing one person would not be able to get the job done because of the magnitude and importance of the assignment”.

Governor Dickson reiterated his administration’s vision of making Bayelsa the melting-pot of all Ijaws and urged the members of the committee to be good ambassadors of the state by promoting the cultural heritage of the Ijaw man.

Apart from wooing donor agencies and non governmental organisations to partner with the state in the provision of medical supplies and other relief materials especially during emergencies, the committee is also expected to develop synergy for inter and intra cultural harmony as well as promote exchanges at all levels.

The committee’s terms of reference, according to the Governor, also include building capacity for investment opportunities for corporate investors from Bayelsa in the Americas, Europe, Africa and Asia.

“You are to project Bayelsa as a tourist attraction to the diaspora community, friends and investors as well as encourage the teaching and learning of the Ijaw language, history and culture amongst our children in the diaspora”, he added.

Responding, Chairman of the Diaspora Mobilisation and Contact Committee, Mr. Charles Preye Zuofa assured the Governor of the committee’s readiness to work together with the restoration team to actualize its agenda.

The Chairman conveyed the appreciation of the delegation of the Bayelsa Diaspora community who attended the 2013 Boro Day Anniversary, saying they were impressed with the ongoing infrastructural development in the state.

The committee has Tarela Diffa-Umeri as its Secretary while Mr. Lancelot Anyanya, Amagbe Kentebe and Inemo Samiama are to serve as members.

Other members of the committee representing are United States based Francis Kabiowei Udisi, Dawari Long-John, Dr. David Ogula, Dr. Beniah Oye, Cordelia Neiketin-Tawari, Joseph Ebiware, Matthew Sikpi, Mrs. N. Akamande and Mrs. Regina Onyeibe.

Members of the committee resident in the United Kingdom include Mr. Rowland Ekperi, Moa Anyamah, Professor Prince Efere, Peter Okorodudu and Funkezi Koroye-Crooks, while Mr. Shedrack Fubara is based in Canada.

Pere-ere Owonaro, Juliet Pog’sosia and Dr. Kemekeyi Oti are based in Holland, France and Germany with Esther Boro and Justice Joffa in the Scandinavia and Ghana in West Africa respectively.

BAYELSA WELCOME THE WORLD AMAA 2013

Bayelsa State Government says it has concluded arrangements for the successful hosting of the 2013 edition of African Movies Academy Awards (AMAA) scheduled to hold in Yenagoa between 13th and 20th of April, 2013. The one week programme is expected to feature among others; Film in a Box Training for 500 students, Praise Jam, (an evening of praise and prayers to start the AMAA week), Book and Craft Fairs, Musical concert and awards to distinguished artistes within and outside the shores of the Country.

Briefing Government House correspondents on the level of preparedness, the State Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson expressed the hope that the achievements and overall success being envisaged from this year’s AMAA will surpass all previous ones.

The Governor disclosed that, concerted efforts were being made to attract private sectorparticipation in this year’s AMAA to make it bigger and achieve much wider acceptance by a greater section our society.

Hon. Dickson explained that, already some key players in the private sector of the economy are collaborating with the State Government to bankroll part of the entire cost of running this year’s AMAA, adding that Globacom, Sterling Bank Plc and host of other notable establishments have agreed to be part of AMAA 2013.

Highlighting the Tourism potentials of the state, Hon. Dickson said hosting of AMAA, will aside from attracting personalities far and wide, will also boost the confidence of local and foreign investors, who will in turn create employment opportunities for the teeming youths of the State. According to him, this year’s event as specified in the programme starts with the training of 500 youths in their various choice of careers.

The Bayelsa State Chief Executive used the opportunity to assure visitors and residents of the state of the security and safety before, during and after AMAA celebrations and reaffirmed his administration’s policy of zero tolerance for crimes and criminality. Calling on the people of the state to utilize the opportunities and maximize the gains, Governor Dickson said the essence of the programme is to showcase the tourism, investment and overall economic potentials of the state to the rest of the world.