Friday 31 January 2014

GBARAIN POWER PLANT TO BE COMMISSIONED, AS FG APPROVES SHIP BUILDING YARD FOR BAYELSA STATE

Vice President Namadi Sambo has disclosed that, the Gbarain Power Plant in Bayelsa State is to be commissioned soon to improve electricity supply as well as meet the power needs of the people of the State.

Vice President Sambo announced this when he received the Bayelsa State Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson when he led a high-powered delegation of Government officials, Royal fathers and other stakeholders at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

The Vice President said other projects would also be commissioned in the State, noting that the Ship building yard being promoted by the Nigeria Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA has been approved, while the Brass LNG was on track.

“I want to inform you that the Brass LNG is on course and the ship building yard which is being promoted by NIMASA has also been approved and soon Bayelsa State will be the first ship building State in this part of Africa and we are also supporting Bayelsa to in the construction of an airport.” he said.

Applauding Governor Dickson for the new projects springing up in the State, Alhaji Sambo pointed out that the Governor has keyed into the transformation agenda of the Federal Government to create wealth among the people, stating that “by 2020, Nigeria would become one of the most developed countries of the world.”

In his remarks, Governor, Henry Seriake Dickson implored Vice President Namadi Sambo to remain focused in the task of building a united, indivisible and stable country founded on the principles of progressive ideals and prosperity.

Describing the presidency as united and one that was free from rancor, the Governor lauded Alhaji Sambo for his commitment to the transformation Government towards delivering the dividends of democracy to the people of the country.

He particularly commended the Vice President for his demonstration of loyalty, support and selfless service in the course of working with President Goodluck Jonathan in the task of moving the country to the next level through the transformation agenda which he noted was already succeeding.

In his words: “this is one presidency that is committed to delivering the dividends of democracy without rancor and division and that is poised to take the country to higher glory.”

While expressing appreciation on behalf of the Government and people of Bayelsa State, Governor Dickson urged the number two citizen of the country not to be deterred by the antics of those who do not mean well for the nation especially as the country approaches another election period.

Also speaking, the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Elder Godsday Orubebe, intimated Governor Dickson of the progress made so far on the East West road project, explaining that, the project, which is worth over N350 billion will be delivered by the end of this year as 38 out of the 42 bridges and 867culverts have been completed.

He said by the end of April, earth-filling would be done around the area between Patani in Delta and Kaiama in Bayelsa State, adding that the contractor decided to focus on the critical aspect of the road involving construction of bridges and culverts which were almost completed.

Daniel Iworiso-Markson

Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Bayelsa State

31/01/2014

Wednesday 29 January 2014

GOVERNMENT WILL SPONSOR SELECTED CLERGYMEN TO HOLY PILGRIMAGE ...GOV DICKSON PLEDGES AT MONTHLY PRAISE NIGHT

Selected clergymen across the eight Local Government Areas of Bayelsa State are to be sponsored on holy pilgrimage to Israel this year.

Bayelsa State Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson disclosed on Tuesday during the Monthly Praise Night, which coincided with activities commemorating of his birthday anniversary at the King of Glory Chapel, Government House, Yenagoa.

Governor Dickson, who noted that the move has become necessary as the country was warming up for the conduct of the 2015 elections, urged religious leaders not to relent in their prayers for the prevailing peace to be sustained.

The Governor called on the people of the State to remain steadfast and not to be swayed by those who do not have the interest of the State at heart, stressing that government was in the process of consolidating on its programmes and policies this year to put the State on the path of progress.

He called for tolerance, cooperation and understanding among the people, pointing out that President Goodluck Jonathan needed their prayers now more than any other time.

In his exhortation, the General Overseer of the Royal House of Grace, Apostle Zilly Aggrey, urged the Government and people to show more concern for vulnerable persons in the society.

Apostle Aggrey commended Governor Dickson for his efforts at making a difference in the lives of the people through his people-oriented projects and enjoined Government not to stop its sponsorship of pilgrims to the holy land in view of the spiritual benefits accruable form such exercise.

Highpoint of the event was the cutting of the birthday cake by Governor Dickson assisted by his wife, Dr. Rachel Dickson, the Deputy Governor, Retired Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John Jonah, Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Konbowei Benson and mother of the Governor, Mrs. Gold Coast Dickson

Daniel Iworiso-Markson
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Bayelsa State
29/01/2014

TEMPORARY STAFF OF BAYELSA ORPHANAGE GET AUTOMATIC EMPLOYMENT AS GOV DICKSON MARKS BIRTHDAY

Bayelsa State Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson has directed that the temporary Staff of the State owned Gloryland Children's Home be offered immediate employment to ensure effective administration of the home.

Governor Dickson who gave the directive when he visited the orphanage in Yenagoa, as part of activities marking his 48th birthday anniversary, also asked the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development to build an educational facility within the premises of the facility. .

Presenting food items, beverages and toiletries to the home, the Governor also directed the Ministry to ensure that the children are enrolled in the best primary schools to give them a sense of belonging.

Governor Dickson, who described the orphanage as an important institution explained that he decided to celebrate his birthday by identifying with the children and urged other well meaning individuals to show love to the needy in society as their level of success would be measured by the positive impact made in the lives of the less privileged ones.

He commended the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, matron of the orphanage home as well as the workers for their selfless dedication to the welfare and development of the children.

In her response, Matron of the Gloryland Children's Home, Mrs. Gladys Trust expressed appreciation to the Governor for the gesture, describing the visit as significant to the goals, aspirations and development of the children and the home in general. She also thanked wife of the Governor, Dr. Rachel Dickson for her continued show of love and care for the orphanage and prayed God to grant Governor Dickson wisdom, divine favour and good health to pilot the affairs of the state.

Dignitaries, who accompanied the Governor are the Deputy Governor, Retired Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John Jonah, Secretary to the State Government, Professor Edmond Allison Oguru, members of the Executive Council and other top government officials.

Daniel Iworiso-Markson
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Bayelsa State
28/01/2014

BAYELSA GOVT RECEIVE KUDOS OVER MARKED IMPROVEMENTS IN EDUCATION SUB SECTOR

Contrary to claims by its detractors, the Bayelsa State Government says its efforts at revamping the education sub sector of the State are yielding positive results with over 300 projects ready for commissioning across the State.

The State Commissioner for Education, Chief Salo Adikumo disclosed this during a solidarity visit by members of the Bayelsa State Contractors Association who also used the opportunity to confer an award of excellence on Governor Seriake Dickson for his developmental strides in the educational and other sectors.

The group led by its Chairman, Dr Kurogha Awolowo, also bestowed a similar award on the Commissioner and the Executive Secretary of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Comrade Walton Liverpool. Responding, Chief Adikumo expressed gratitude to the association for the awards, noting that the gesture would spur the Governor and the other recipients to do more to boost the educational sector in the state.

Going down memory lane, Chief Adikumo pointed out that the education system in Bayelsa was in a sorry state with inadequate and grossly dilapidated school infrastructure when the present administration took the reins of governance. He maintained that it was in realization of this disadvantaged educational status of the state, that the Restoration Government swiftly declared a state of emergency in the sector.

According to the Commissioner, the policies and programmes of the Dickson-led administration in the sector such as the free and compulsory education at the primary and secondary levels as well as scholarship schemes have started impacting positively on the State.

He described Government’s achievements in education as unprecedented, stressing that about 85% percent of projects embarked upon have been completed. Making reference to criticisms levelled against the administration, Adikumo said, “Those who say such things do not mean well for the state.

The dilapidated structures (school buildings) were there before we came in and nobody talked about it when some people including some of them that are criticising us now were in Government. No right thinking person in this State will say that the administration of Seriake Dickson is not doing well. The evidence is there for anybody to verify because we don’t tell lies.

“In less than two years, the Government has built headmasters’ residential quarters in almost all the communities where there is a primary school in this state. We are also building 8 model secondary schools, one each in all the Local Government Areas in addition to the 25 with boarding facilities that we are constructing in every constituency.

He explained that, Government has just commenced the distribution of another set of dual desks and books to schools across the State, adding that appropriate steps are being taken to address complaints raised on the sizes of the free school uniforms.

Earlier, the Chairman of the Bayelsa State Contractors Association, Dr. Kurogha Awolowo cited the purposeful and development-oriented leadership style of Governor Dickson as reasons for the award. He said the association embarked on an assessment tour to all the Local Government Areas and was amazed at the level of development projects taking place in every nook and cranny of the State.

In a speech delivered on his behalf by the Vice Chairman of the Association, Mr. Ebiye Zikenah, the Chairman posits that, “The Association swung into action by touring the eight Local Government Areas to observe and confirm the claim and criticisms of few persons over the radio and rumours that Government is not working but sleeping. But surprisingly, we were amazed with the numerous projects both completed and ongoing in the State that deserve commendation”.

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

24/01/2014

BAYELSA GOVT UNVEILS ANNIVERSARY PROGRAMME OF ACTIVITIES, LINE UP PROJECTS FOR COMMISSIONING

Bayelsa State Government says it will use the period of the week-long celebration of its second year anniversary to take stock of the achievements of the administration.

Deputy Governor, Retired Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John Jonah, who stated this shortly after the first Executive Council meeting of the year held at the Government House in Yenagoa, explained that, major projects executed by the Restoration administration of Hon. Seriake Dickson would be showcased for Bayelsans to see and assess the performance of the administration since its assumption of office.

The Deputy Governor disclosed that, President Goodluck Jonathan is expected to commission some key projects within Yenagoa and its environs, adding that, there were equally other projects spread across the State that are at various levels of completion, while others have been completed.

Secretary to the State Government and chairman of the anniversary committee, Professor Edmond Allison Oguru, who briefed newsmen on the programme of activities of the second year anniversary, explained that, the programme would hold between 7 th and 14 th of next month.

According to him, activities lined up for the week include anniversary press briefing and lecture, transparency briefing, Award Night, while Commissioners of various ministries will take turns to brief the press on the achievements of their ministries under the restoration administration from 21 st to 25 th of next month.

In his contribution, the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Mr. Lawrence Ewhrudjakpor, who listed some of the projects, however explained that, some of the key projects to be commissioned by the President may be delayed until the President comes, as Government would like him to personally commission them.

According to him, the projects ready for commissioning are, the Tombia-Etegwe road/bridge, internal roads in Toru Orua, access road Isaac Boro town, Road Safety Road and the first phase of the State Youth Development Centre, which will also house the permanent NYSC Orientation Camp at Kaiama in Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area of the State.

Also to be commissioned are the traditional rulers’ council secretariat, multi-door court house, the Diagnostic Centre, Police Officers’ Mess, the remodeled integrated cultural centre (now Gabriel Okara Cultural Centre), Archives building, four civil servants’ secretariat annexes, quality control laboratory and the lodge for visiting Governors.

Others are, the remodeled Government House Clinic, Diete Koki Memorial Hospital, three senatorial schools, twenty-five model schools, School of Nursing Tombia, Forensic laboratory, Nigerian Army Quarters, Driving School, Tourism School, Teachers Training Institute, Bulou Orua among others.

Daniel Iworiso-Markson

Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Bayelsa State

23/01/2014

DICKSON LAUDS MU’AZU, TUKUR’S APPOINTMENT AS PDP, NRC CHAIRMEN

Bayelsa State Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson has described the emergence of the immediate past civilian Governor of Bauchi State, Alhaji Ahmadu Adamu Mu’azu as the new National Chairman of the ruling Peoples’ Democratic Party, (PDP), and the appointment of erstwhile chairman of the party, Dr. Bamanga Tukur as Chairman of the Nigerian Railway Corporation, (NRC) as a positive development and a good omen to the goals and aspirations of the NRC and the PDP.

The duo, according to a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Daniel Iworiso Markson would bring their wealth of experience to bear in their respective positions.

Dr. Mu’azu, during his tenure as Governor of Bauchi State did not only reposition his people for greater economic and infrastructural development, but laid the foundation for the PDP to remain the dominant party in the State.

As Governor of the President’s home State and as a Party, we are all comfortable with him, because he has an amiable record of achievements as Governor and has remained a strong party person, always working for the success and progress of the party.

While expressing hope that the party under his leadership will become even stronger and better focussed as a family with common goals and unity of purpose, the Governor commended members of the party for the smooth and peaceful conduct of the process which saw the emergence of the new chairman.

Expressing his unalloyed supports for the new Chairman, the Governor said, as a State where the PDP is well rooted, we are going to give our new party Chairman all the needed support to succeed, especially with 2015 around the corner.

The Bayelsa State Chief Executive also, commended President Goodluck Jonathan’s choice of the erstwhile Chairman of the PDP as the chairman of the Nigerian Railway Corporation, submitting that his experience in the public and private sectors would assist in revamping the corporation.

Describing Dr. Tukur as a faithful and progressive party man, who has at various times jettisoned selfish motives and worked diligently for the overall benefit and progress of the PDP and the Country, Governor Dickson stated, ‘ it is a thing of joy that as a political party, we have people like him, whose maturity and loyalty to the party has continued to endure over the years, hence our prayer is that God will grant him good health and wisdom to continually render quality service to the nation, even as Chairman of the NRC.

Commending the choice of Dr. Tukur as the Chairman of the NRC by President Goodluck Jonathan, Hon. Dickson expressed the hope that the new Chairman would bring his long standing experience in the private and public sectors to bear in his new position.

The Bayelsa State Chief Executive was also full of gratitude to Alhaji Bamanga for always standing by the President Goodluck Jonathan, even in the face of daunting challenges, adding that the Government and people of Bayelsa State remain eternally grateful to him.

23/01/2014

GOV DICKSON’S BIRTHDAY TO BE LOW KEYED, STOPS CONGRATULATORY MESSAGES, OTHERS

Bayelsa State Governor, Hon. Henry Seriake Dickson will be a year older on the 28 th of this month.

But, in keeping with his administration’s policy of prudent management of the scarce resources of the State, Governor Dickson says, activities marking his birthday would be made as low key as possible, as he plans to go to Church in company of his immediate family members to appreciate the goodness of God in his life.

To this end, top Government functionaries at Federal, State and Local Government levels have been urged to avoid the popular practice of sending congratulatory messages to the Governor in the print, electronic and the social media. Similarly, development partners of the State, contractors, personal friends of the Governor as well as friends of the State and organs of Government have been directed to avoid sending messages in which ever form to commemorate the Governor’s birthday anniversary.

A Government House statement rather called on individuals and groups with such plans to donate such funds to charity and other areas that will improve the living standard of Bayelsans.

The statement expressed satisfaction with immeasurable support the administration has had in its efforts at ensuring physical development of the citizenry and the infrastructure of the State, stressing that, it will remain eternally grateful to all and sundry for keeping faith with the restoration agenda of Government.

The statement further called on Bayelsans to remain steadfast in their belief and support for the administration, which has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to move the State to greater heights in all its ramifications.

Daniel Iworiso Markson
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Bayelsa State
19/01/2014

DICKSON WINS ONCE AGAIN, AS SYLVA IS FLOORED

The Court of Appeal today dismissed the suit filed by former Governor of Bayelsa State, Timipre Sylva’s in his bid to unseat Governor Seriake Dickson at the Court of Appeal in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

The Court of Appeal dismissed the suit for lack of jurisdiction to adjudicate on the matter. It would be recalled that this is about the third or fourth time Sylva would be challenging the candidacy of Governor Dickson as the flag bearer of the Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP) for the 2012 Governorship election in the State.

In the ruling of the previous case, the Presiding Judge, Justice Lambo Akanbi had observed that too many courts had entertained the suit in question.

The recent case is even coming on the heels of Sylva’s defection to the All Progressive Congress, APC along with his few loyalists who are already engaged in leadership tussle of the party in the State and by so doing, threatening the existing peace and progress in the State.

This is a clear indication of Sylva’s attempt to grab power at all cost and whose action constitutes an abuse of judicial process.

Applauding the Judiciary for its forthrightness in upholding justice, Governor Dickson on his part congratulated the third arm of Government for not allowing itself to be used as a tool to subvert justice, stressing that, the Judiciary has remained the last bastion of the common man.

Daniel Iworiso Markson
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Bayelsa State
13/01/2014

APC LEADERSHIP TUSSLE IN BAYELSA STATE: GOV DICKSON WANTS NATIONAL BODY TO WADE IN FOR PEACE TO REIGN

Bayelsa State Governor, Hon. Henry Seriake Dickson has directed the Police and other security agencies in the State to ensure adequate security at the secretariat of the All Progressive Alliance, (APC) in Yenagoa, the State capital.

A Government House statement says, the directive is in keeping with the policy of the present administration to ensure security of lives and property of residents and visitors to the State. “As a responsive Government, we will not abandon what is clearly our constitutional duty to provide security and ensure that people go about their legitimate duties without any form of molestation and same for the APC and any other party that is lawfully registered and recognized as a political party in Nigeria”

Governor Dickson however appealed to the leadership of the party at the national level to ensure that, steps are taken urgently to resolve the leadership tussle among its rank and file in the State.

The Governor, who expressed serious concern over the seemingly bitter rivalry among members of the APC in the State, wants it properly handled before it degenerates to a security problem for the State. Clearly, the rivalry or rift in the party is between loyalists of former Governor Timipre Sylva and members of the ACN, who have been in the opposition all the while and a part of the new alliance that gave birth to the APC.

Another thorny issue within the party is that, Two of Sylva’s loyalists (Richard Kpodo and Godwin Sidi) have reportedly imposed themselves on the party as Chairman and Secretary as well as sited the State Secretariat at Kpodo’s personal property located at the Etegwe area of Yenagoa without due consultation.

Governor Dickson also pointed out that the said personal building of Mr. Kpodo has long been earmarked for demolition alongside other structures, to make way for the second fly-over bridge to be constructed around the area, adding that Government has already set aside the sum of N1 billion for the payment of compensation to owners of properties to be affected by the project.

According to him, the exercise is not to witch hunt anybody or group of persons, but purely intended to bring about infrastructural development to the State capital in line with the Restoration agenda of Government. Governor Dickson recalled how, a section of his personal property was demolished, as a result of ongoing expansion of the new Opolo/Elebele expressway, describing it as a price everybody has to pay for the development of the critical infrastructure of the State.

While, calling for the understanding and cooperation of the citizenry in this regard, the Bayelsa State Chief Executive noted that, the development of the needed infrastructure in Yenagoa and other parts of the State, is a continuous exercise and buildings and other property that fall within the right of way of such projects will be demolished and compensation paid to their owners.

“Bayelsa is at peace and I want to use this opportunity to call on the APC to ensure that, the problem does not cause a breach of the peace within the State capital and its environs, as Government will do everything on its part to maintain the existing peaceful atmosphere around the State”

Daniel Iworiso Markson
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Bayelsa State
12/01/2014

GOV DICKSON HAILS BAMANGA TUKUR’S APPOINTMENT AS CHAIRMAN OF NRC, EXPRESSES CONFIDENCE IN HIS ABILITY TO DELIVER

Governor Henry Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa State has applauded the appointment of former National Chairman of Peoples’ Democratic Party, PDP, Dr. Bamanga Tukur as Chairman of the Nigerian Railway Corporation.

While, commending President Jonathan for the appointment, he expressed the hope that, Dr. Tukur will bring his long standing experience in the private and public sectors to bear in his new position. “The revival of the rail transportation is so dear to Mr. President and the transformation agenda of the Federal Government and with the massive investments in the sector and a capable hand like Dr. Bamanga Tukur, we are sure to have things working in record time”

Governor Dickson, who was speaking on the heels of his new appointment, noted that, the decision was not only a wise one, but one that will give the sector the needed boost and make life more meaningful for Nigerians and the economy in general.

The Bayelsa State Chief Executive also commended the Elder Statesman for his dedicated, selfless and committed services to the ruling Peoples’ Democratic Party, PDP and the nation in general, describing him as a faithful and progressive party man, who has at various times jettisoned selfish motives and worked diligently for the overall benefit and progress of the PDP and the country.

According to him, in every circumstance and situation, the elder statesman has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the PDP and always placed it above every other consideration. “It is a thing of joy that, as a political party, we have people like him, whose maturity and loyalty to the party has continued to endure over the years, hence our prayer is that, God will grant him good health and wisdom to continually render quality service to the nation, even as Chairman of the Nigerian Railway Corporation” “He remains a father figure and a source of inspiration to majority of us and that is also why we will equally continue to appreciate him for his positive attributes”

The Bayelsa State Chief Executive was also full of gratitude to Alhaji Bamanga for always standing by President Goodluck Jonathan, even in the face of daunting challenges, adding that the Government and people of Bayelsa State will remain eternally grateful to him.

Daniel Iworiso Markson
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Bayelsa State
22/01/2014

Friday 3 January 2014

Two Weeks After Gov. Dickson Released N3B For Nembe-Ogbia Road; Bayelsa Dep. Gov Drives To Nembe; Urges Nembe Kingdom To Continue To Support Dickson

03/01/2014

Barely two weeks after Governor Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa State released a three billion naira backup to the contractor handling the Nembe-Ogbia Road, SETRACO PLC, the State Deputy Governor, Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John Jonah on new year eve drove down to Nembe, headquarters of Nembe LGA in the East senatorial district of the State.

The Deputy Governor, who addressed a cross section of the people shortly on arrival at Nembe, urged indigines of Nembe Kingdom to continue to support the Restoration Government of Hon. Seriake Dickson by maintaining the existing peace in the area.

Rtd Rear Admiral John Jonah, who arrived Nembe in a four-wheel car reminded the people that, the only way they can attract more development to the area was for them to remain at peace with one another as well as with their neighbours. The Deputy Governor described the Ogbia-Nembe road project as important due to its proximity to Brass, an emerging businessand economic hub of the State, which currently plays host to the Nigerian Agip Oil Company, the Liquefied Natural Gas Project, the Nigerian Navy, the State Maritime Academy and other maritime related activities. In his remarks, the Amayanabo of Nembe, King Edmund Daukoru noted that, accessing Nembe by road was a dream come true and commended Governor Henry Seriake Dickson and his Deputy, Rear Admiral John Jonah, the Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC), the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) funding partners of the project as well as Setraco Nigeria Limited, the contractors handling the project.

Also speaking. Mr. Senaka Rvpaneti, the project manager and representative of Setraco Nigeria Limited explained that, the contract for the Ogbia-Nembe road project was awarded in 2006 and it covers a distance of 26 kilometers including six bridges.

Rvpaneti revealed that, completion date of the project is March next year but promised to get it to stone based level by September this year to enable all vehicles drive to Nembe.

Those who accompanied the Deputy Governor included the State commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Mr. Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, his Energy conuterpart, Mr. Francis Ikio, Chairman of the State Project Monitoring and Implementation Committee, Chief Walter Feghabo-Amain; Special Adviser, Federal Government Projects and programmers, Mrs. Remi Kuku as well as Mr. Evans Krukrubo , Manager, Government and Community Relations of Bayelsa and Delta states in the SPDC.

It will be recalled that, Governor Seriake Dickson during his monthly Transparency briefing at the Banquet hall, Government House Yenagoa on the 17th of December, 2013 released a three billion naira backup to the management of SETRACO for the completion of the Ogbia-Nembe Road project.

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