Tag Archives: Bayelsa

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May 23 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.
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May 3 2013

BDIC: NEW ECONOMIC ROADMAP FOR A NEW BAYELSA By Daniel Iworiso-Markson

Driven by the likelihood that in the next 20 to 30 years we may experience dry oil wells all across the Niger Delta, which portends very dire consequences for all of us as a nation, particularly to those of us in the oil bearing states, Governor Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa State only recently took the bull by the horns to begin the process of planning for a future without oil by setting up the Bayelsa Development and Investment Corporation (BDIC).

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In the wisdom of Governor Dickson, with the advances in science and technology in the majoroil consumer economies, it is imperative that we take the issue of diversification of our economy seriously. So BDIC was set up to drive investments, create skills and develop a robust economicbase that can withstand the shock that will come the day after oil, which is why his administration is serious about investing in agriculture and tourism, among others, as alternativesto oil and gas.

The BDIC initiative is an integral component of the new Bayelsa that Governor Dickson often talks about. This new Bayelsa, many will readily admit, is fast becoming a reality. Virtually every facet of governance bears eloquent testimony to the emergence of this paradigm with distinct focus. It is all about the future. Intrinsic here, however, is that the critical pillars and catalyst that will enable us arrive fully at the new Bayelsa of our dream lies in our economic prosperity. And the strategic vehicle designed to convey us to that destination of economic prosperity is the Bayelsa Development and Investment Corporation (BDIC).

Speaking at the Inaugural Board Retreat of BDIC held at the weekend in Yenagoa, Governor Dickson pointed out that the new Bayelsa that we all crave, the new Bayelsa that we actually deserve, can only be founded on prosperity and security. “Government is building roads and bridges, schools and so on, but in vain do we do all of this, if these activities do not translate to economic prosperity and opportunities for our people”, he declared.

As the visioner and brain behind the BDIC, Governor Dickson was very clear about his expectations of the role of the body when he said, “We will like the BDIC to turn Bayelsa to the new Dubai of Africa and we can do it because we are a resilient and resourceful people.”

Even more profound, Governor Dickson did not mince words when he said that the restoration government under his watch is a believer in free enterprise. He believes that the private sector is best suited to promoting enterprise, creating wealth, sustaining development and government should therefore have very little business in running businesses. Hence, he believes from the work of BDIC that the people of the state will experience sustainable growth and development.

Giving insights to his conviction in setting up the BDIC, Governor Dickson had this to say:  ”the actual job of creating wealth, developing skills, that has to be driven by a body of people put together in a way that can enable it to compete and do business is a private sector driven initiative. That is why we have come up with this body in this state. We have instances of the Odua Group, Ibile Holdings by the Lagos State Government, the  NNDC of old and other similar bodies in this country. Outside the country, you have sovereign entities like the IDC of South Africa, the one in Rwanda and so many others; those models exist and that is where we want to take our state to.”

In what may appear as setting a clear agenda for the BDIC, Governor Dickson said, going forward, all capital investments that have a business element will be undertaken by the BDIC. For example, it will be the duty of the BDIC to see how we can attract funding to projects that can add value to us, which is also an investment in nature.

Elucidating on the economic and financial requirements of needed infrastructure and benefits in the new thinking, the governor said, for example, if we want to complete the Tower Hotel in the state capital, the BDIC is in a better position to go to the market and talk to people and see how we can also attract expertise and blend the two to ensure that the project is completed on terms that are acceptable and fair.

Citing another example, the Contriman Governor noted the importance of constructing such strategic roads like the one linking Brass which, he said, is long overdue. Already three companies have been assigned to do the estimate and the least cost is N90 billion; that is from Nembe to Brass. He hinted that there is no way we can be taken seriously unless our state has that road to link the area where we have the Brass LNG. And getting the LNG started; expanding its opportunities for our people is another ball game. Again, these are areas where the BDIC will be best suited to handling the inter-related issues. With respect to the road to Agge, where we intend to have a deep sea port, there is already an application for a free trade zone in that area.

Stressing the importance of the task at hand for the body, Governor Dickson said all these arehuge investments which the BDIC can drive more actively to achieve intended objectives; adding that if we think carefully and well enough on such huge capital investments, they could also have some kind of economic and investment element to it. If other states are doing it, we too can think along that line.

“The point I am making is that, going forward, it is our intention to allow the BDIC drive capital investments that are of a commercial nature in whichever sector,” he stated.

Governor Dickson took time to clarify the status of the BDIC with respect to its function viz-a-viz the role of government: ”Let me state for the records that the BDIC is not intended to take the place of the ministries in this state. The BDIC is not a body we have set up that is to be higher than the government of this state. The BDIC’s role is not policy formulation because that function will continue to reside in the state government and its formal organs. But it will be the duty of the BDIC to drive those activities that are investment related. So the BDIC, if you like, is an investment organ. The BDIC is an instrument for driving, attracting investments and alsodirectly investing.”

It is instructive to note that BDIC is a creation of our laws, wholly and fully set up as a distinct corporate entity devoid of the control and undue influence of government. It has a duly constituted board and management made up of some of the finest professionals in the country, some of whom have worked at the topmost level of management in very reputable blue chips companies in Nigeria and abroad.

What is working for the BDIC is the fact that it is coming into the market as a big player. It currently enjoys the capital injection of N10 billion from the Government of Bayelsa State. This is to enable the BDIC take off in earnest. According to Governor Dickson, the BDIC is not intended to be a paper tiger. Perhaps to underscore the sheer worth of this corporate entity, Governor Dickson has authorized the transfer of key assets owned by most of the other agencies and subsidiaries of government to the BDIC.

Also, it is interesting to note that some of the recent acquisitions that government has made since coming into power, for example, the acquisition of 53 percent stake in Linkage Assurance and other similar acquisitions have been put under the control of the BDIC and it is the responsibility of this corporate body to see how all these companies will be put to maximum advantage.

Hence, the BDIC is expected to leverage on existing assets that the state has in addition to the new acquisitions that will be made as part of its mandate to chart a new economic future for Bayelsa State that will guarantee its economic prosperity and security going forward.

 

The BDIC has already opened offices in South Africa, one in Johannesburg and the international head office in London. So come May 5th 2013, Governor Dickson is expected to lead a high powered delegation from Nigeria and having graciously gotten President Goodluck Jonathan to accept to perform the official commissioning  of the BDIC office in South Africa along with President Jacob Zuma. The opening of this office is to encourage BDIC to look at opportunities in the major markets, major economies with a view to establishing a formidable base for the state.

Governor Dickson’s dream about the BDIC is to chart a robust economic future for the state as well as use it as vehicle to re-create a road map that will birth the new Bayelsa of our dream. The realization of this dream is not anchored on oil and gas but through massive investment in agriculture and tourism, among other lucrative investments.  This is what he had to say: “We are very serious about promoting tourism and part of what I suggested to the Director General of the Tourism Development Agency is that by the time we are set and we have appropriate partners in that insurance area, we should be able to take a policy for every tourist that is visiting Bayelsa State. And when we prepare that and they know that we are already in their London and South African offices, they will have confidence in us.”

So the BDIC’s vision is to be an enabler for transforming Bayelsa State into one of the top economies not just in our country but in Africa.  Our mission is to protect, stimulate and grow the wealth of all Bayelsans through responsive, innovative and sustainable investments while acting as a catalyst for socio-economic development of our state.

Daniel Iworiso-Markson, Chief Press Secretary to Bayelsa Governor, sent this piece from Yenagoa.

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Apr 30 2013

GOV DICKSON WANTS STATES AND THE FG TO PRIORITIZE DEV OF SMALL AND MEDIUM SCALE ENTERPRISES

Bayelsa State Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson has advocated that development of Small and Medium Scale Enterprises be made top priority to jump-start the economy of the country.

Governor Dickson stated this when a representative of the Director-General of Small and Medium Scale Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), Mr. Olawale Fasanya visited him at Government House, Yenagoa.

The Governor pointed out that the promotion of small businesses should not only be encouraged in Bayelsa but the country as whole to serve as a catalyst to stimulate the country’s economy, which is currently a consumer one.

In his words: “I want to enjoin all of us to address the issue of promoting SMEs because that is the fastest way to fast track the growth of the economy. Here in this state, I want to assure you that the development of SMEs is a critical cornerstone of our restoration government because that is why we say we are broadening the base of our economy. We want people to come and do business here and we also have a duty to stimulate enterprise, bridge their finance needs and skill deficiencies.

Hon. Dickson noted that the major thrust of his administration’s policies and programmes was geared towards improving small and medium scale enterprises to create wealth, employment and enhance skills as well as reduce the dependence on foreign products.

“Small and Medium Scale Enterprises are the way to go particularly in an economy such as ours that is over-dependence on products that come from outside our shores. So we are very passionate about this sector and I want to this sector blossom in Bayelsa so that we can create wealth, employment and generate skills. Going forward, this is one area that is going to form a major plank of our social investment policy.

He however attributed the delay in the disbursement of funds already made available for the sector to some logistic problems which are being streamlined to enable Bayelsans participate actively and become stakeholders in the local economy.

Governor Dickson who expressed government’s willingness to explore the full range of the opportunities that SMEDAN has to offer,  thanked the agency for taking special interest in the state to expand its economic base.

Earlier in his remarks, representative of the Director General of SMEDAN, Mr. Olawale Fasanya said a recent survey conducted indicated that over 400 people are involved in SMEs in Bayelsa State.

To this end, he said the agency has been mandated to collaborate with the state on ways SMEDAN could promote small businesses.

Mr. Fasanya also explained that the National Enterprise Development Programme under SMEDAN is expected to be launched soon by the President and Bayelsa has been penciled down as one of the states where the programme would start.

According to him, the programme involves getting the state to nominate what he called, Business Development Service Volunteers who will be trained to mentor the SMEs that have been identified in the state.

Mr. Fasanya said SMEDAN has been involved in training about 200 women in the state in the past, under the Rural Women Development Programme.

GOV DICKSON DONATES N250M TO SME TRUST FUND, URGES MULTI-NATIONALS TO CONTRIBUTE TO FUND

Bayelsa State Governor, Hon. Henry Seriake Dickson has made an initial donation of N250 million to the development of Small and Medium Scale Enterprises Trust Fund in the state.

Governor Dickson made the donation at the Small and Medium scale Enterprises Summit, MSME Opportunity Fair and Entrepreneurial Capacity Building Workshop with the theme, “Re-Orientation; A Necessary Key To Wealth Creation and Restoration Through SMEs”, in Yenagoa, the State capital.

The Governor urged all, especially the multinational oil companies operating in the state to donate generously to the trust fund; stressing that working together they could enthrone enduring peace and stability in the state for businesses to thrive.

He also enjoined businessmen and women to adopt the young entrepreneurs in the state’s mentorship programme, describing SMEs as a catalyst for self-reliance and industrial development.

While highlighting the challenges bedeviling the sector in the state, Hon. Dickson decried the situation where Bayelsa has been turned into what he referred to as “a dumping ground” as 90 percent of what the people consume is produced outside the state.

To tackle the problem militating against SMEs, the Governor advocated that empowerment programmes should be targeted at more women than men as they hold the key to fighting poverty.

In his welcome address, the Commissioner for Trade, Industry and Investment, Mr. Ayakeme Massah, stressed the importance of small businesses in the creation of wealth and jobs to grow the economy of the state.

The Senior Special Assistant on SMEs, Mr. Ebiekare Eradiri presented a summary of the report of the state’s SME Mentoring Scheme and noted that a N10 billion target is expected in the SMEs Development Trust Fund.

Representative of the Director General of SMEDAN, Mr. Olawale Fasanya, said the agency was in the state to address the problems associated with SMEs.

In their separate speeches, the South African Counsellor for Political and Economic Affairs, Thandi Nkowati and Guest Speaker living in the United Kingdom, Chief Bimbo Afolayan, said SMEs play a vital role in economies especially developing ones as they contribute 57 percent to Gross Domestic Product.

They identified inability to access funds and skills as challenges in the sector and advocated partnership with the Small and Medium scale Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria, (SMEDAN)

Apr 30 2013

GOV DICKSON BLAMES INSUFFICIENT INVESTMENT IN HUMAN CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT, FAILURE OF CRITICAL INSTITUTIONS FOR NATION’S SECURITY CHALLENGES

Bayelsa State Governor, Hon Seriake Dickson has attributed the country’s security challenges to insufficient investment in human capacity development and failure of most critical state institutions.
Bayelsa State Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson (left) makes a symbolic presentation the State’s Coat of Arms to the visiting Director General of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru, Prof. Tijjani Mohammed-Bande, during a courtesy call on the Governor by members of Senior Executive Course No.35,2013, of the National Institute, at the Government House, Yenagoa.


Bayelsa State Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson (left) makes a symbolic presentation the State’s Coat of Arms to the visiting Director General of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru, Prof. Tijjani Mohammed-Bande, during a courtesy call on the Governor by members of Senior Executive Course No.35,2013, of the National Institute, at the Government House, Yenagoa.

The Governor stated this when the Director-General and participants of Course 35 of the National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru, near Jos in Plateau State paid him a courtesy call at Government House, Yenagoa.
Hon. Dickson, who identified the provision of a secure environment as the first responsibility of government, vowed that his administration would not compromise in the maintenance of law and order.
He maintained that the present administration has in the past one year made appropriate investments in the provision of law and order, adding that more efforts will still be made in that direction to ensure a safer environment for socio-economic activities to thrive.
His words; “Here, in the past one year, we have made a lot of investment in the maintenance of law and order, putting the right structures and laws in place and also send the clear message that leadership has no business compromising law and order.  Within one year, we have been able to provide this level of security and peace and tranquillity that you are going to witness as you go out there to interact with the people of the state.
“But we are not yet where we ought to be.  That is why we are working with our partners to see how we can make even our waterways safe so that our strategic assets will be secured and our people who live along the waterways will also be safe.
While commending the Director-General and Staff of NIPSS for keeping the dreams of its founding fathers alive, Governor Dickson urged the Institute to carry out objective assessment of their findings to promote good governance in the country.
“We will like to remind the Institute to do more and tell us what we are not doing right.  Only the National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies have the institutional and structural capacity to dig deep into the issues we have talked about here (security challenges).
“But in spite of these challenges, our country has the potential of being one of the greatest nations in the world especially with the President’s transformation agenda and the enthusiasm, which I know players at all levels are working hard to ensure that we make life more meaningful for our people.
Expressing delight at the visit, the Governor directed all government officials to interact freely with the NIPSS’s team to enable them have a dispassionate assessment of what the current administration is doing in the state.
“I hereby direct all government officials to interact closely with you on what we are doing in terms of reforms in the governance culture, and what we are doing on transparency and accountability because we hold power at the mercy of our people.”
Continuing, he said “we have issues of pollution and environmental degradation; those are very serious matters and in this state much more than any other state you will visit because this is where oil production and exploration started in 1956.  I hope you will find time to visit places like Oloibiri, which is now a metaphor of the day after oil.”
“And that is why in the new Bayelsa we are also working hard to diversify the base of our economy and prepare our state for the day after oil.  And we are doing so by mobilising resources to invest in agriculture and tourism.
Earlier in his remarks, the Director-General of the National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies, Professor Tijani Mohammed-Bande enjoined Nigerians not to despair in the face of the current challenges but rather support the present administration’s transformation agenda to move the nation forward.
Professor Mohammed-Bande, who lauded the Governor on his developmental strides, noted that the institute was embarking on study tour to all the states with a view to putting together a report that will promote good governance and security in the country.
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Apr 29 2013

Dickson faults critics over BDIC…commissions office in South Africa

The Bayelsa State Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson has faulted the position of the critics on the inauguration of the Bayelsa Development and Investment Corporation, (BDIC), arguing that it was aimed at attracting investments to the state and as well make it the delight of local and foreign investors.
The BDIC, contrary to the submission of the critics is aimed at charting a more diversified economic base from the current dependency in Oil and Gas sector of the economy.
Warning the people against playing politics with the economic development of the state, the Governor noted with dismay the position of some politicians in the state on his administration’s economic policies which gave birth to the establishment of the BDIC and other agencies of the government.
In order to boost its economic profile, the State, according to the Governor is beaming its searchlight on the following sectors which include: tourism, Agriculture,Oil & gas, Infrastructure, and FMCG.
On the choice of South Africa as corporate office of the BDIC, the Governor disclosed ‘the BDIC is looking to attract investment from all major markets and economies, with South Africa being one of such country.  The Johannesburg office represents their second international presence after the recently opened London, UK office.
‘It is hoped that through its presence the BDIC will attract partnerships with Southern African investors on a PPP (public private partnership) into the identified economic sectors of Bayelsa State.   Interface with the Nigerian consulate to fast track immigration requirements for prospective investors looking to visit Bayelsa State.
“The BDIC’s vision is to be an enabler for transforming Bayelsa State into one of the top economies not just in our country but also in Africa.  Our mission is to protect, stimulate and grow the wealth of all Bayelsans through responsive, innovative and sustainable investments while acting as a catalyst for socio-economic development of our state,” said Dickson
Governor Dickson is to lead a high powered delegation from Nigeria, with President Goodluck Jonathan expected to perform the official commissioning of the BDIC office in South Africa along with his South African counterpart, President Jacob Zuma.
Apr 29 2013

DICKSON IDENTIFIES DEARTH OF FACILITIES AS BANE OF JUDICIAL PROCESS

Bayelsa State Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson has identified the absence of non-functional prison services as one of the factors militating against the quick dispensation of justice in the Country.

Bayelsa State Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson (left) presenting a souvenir to the Hon. Minister of Interior, Comrade Abba Moro (right) during a courtesy call at Government House in Yenagoa. Photo by Lucky Francis

Bayelsa State Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson (left) presenting a souvenir to the Hon. Minister of Interior, Comrade Abba Moro (right) during a courtesy call at Government House in Yenagoa. Photo by Lucky Francis

                  This is just as he tasked the Federal Government; Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) on employment generation.
                 Receiving the visiting Minister of Interior, Comrade Abba Moro, in his office on Monday, the Governor blamed the delay in dispensation of justice and congestion of the prisons across the country on inadequate facilities.
                 Assuring the visiting Minister of his administration’s support, Hon. Dickson stated that the presence of a functional Prisons Service in the state would to a large extent, ensure the speedy administration of justice, especially in the aspect of criminal justice as well as reduce the cost of litigation.
Bayelsa State Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson (2ndleft)cutting the tape to commission the Yenagoa Prison at Okaka in Yenagoa, while his Deputy, Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John Jonah Rtd, (3rdright) the State Chief Judge, Justice Kate Abiri (right) Minister of Interior, Comrade Abba Moro (2ndright) the Comptroller General of Prisons, Mr. Zakari Ibrahim (left) look on. Photo by Lucky Francis

Bayelsa State Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson (2ndleft)cutting the tape to commission the Yenagoa Prison at Okaka in Yenagoa, while his Deputy, Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John Jonah Rtd, (3rdright) the State Chief Judge, Justice Kate Abiri (right) Minister of Interior, Comrade Abba Moro (2ndright) the Comptroller General of Prisons, Mr. Zakari Ibrahim (left) look on. Photo by Lucky Francis

                  According to him, “the delay in the dispensation of justice to inmates of the state was occasioned by the absence of a Federal prisons in the state as its indigenes had to be transferred to the Ahoada Prisons in Rivers State which posed challenges for litigation and transportation.”
                 Without a Federal Prison, the infrastructure of a justice administration system particularly that of the criminal justice system is not complete and we in Bayelsa, over the years have that problem so I want to thank the Federal Government for the decision to establish a Federal Prison here.
                  Before now, as you rightly said, all our Awaiting Trial Inmates, all those who have to be detained or kept in custody for one reason or the other are usually taken to other places of detention outside Bayelsa State. That meant a lot of inconvenience and cost to them and their relations as well as created a lot of problems for their legal representatives.”
                  He affirmed that the state government’s collaboration with the Federal Government to establish the Prisons Service was informed by the need to provide a humane and comfortable environment for those awaiting trial, considering the fact that the Prisons is basically a place for rehabilitation, stressing that the business of security is the collective responsibility of all.
                 To this end, Governor Dickson urged other state governments to join forces with the Federal Government in enhancing security and not maintain a hard line about infrastructures that are of the Federal Government since such structures were for the benefits of the citizens of the state.
                  While assuring the Nigeria Prisons of more logistic support, the Governor implored the Minister of Interior to absorb Bayelsans in its various agencies toward reducing the problem of unemployment in the state.
                  Earlier in his remarks, the Minister of Interior, Comrade Abba Moro who was in the state to commission the Federal Prison, gave a thumbs up to Governor Dickson for the giant strides made in the development of the state particularly in promoting good governance.
                  The Minister described as unacceptable the absence a federal prison in Bayelsa, the home state of the President pointing out that the establishment of the state command would go a long way in addressing the problems of litigation.
                   Comrade Moro also suggested to Governor Dickson to undertake regular visits to the prison to grant prerogative of mercy to inmates who are deserving of such pardon as well establish alternative ways of punishment rather than imprisonment in order to help decongest the prison.
                   Bayelsa state prison now has a full fledged command like any other state, while we will continue to provide for the logistics, vehicles for the transportation of inmates in the quest to access justice, there is a lot of expectation and challenge arising from the transfer of Bayelsa inmates to this place. I, therefore request provision of additional vehicles.
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Apr 23 2013

GOV DICKSON DECLARES N28.9B BALANCE IN STATE’S COFFERS FOR MARCH 2013, AS IGR HITS ALL TIME HIGH OF N1B

In keeping with the tradition of the present administration’s policy on transparency and accountability, Governor Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa State has declared a total of N28.972bn as balance of funds available for the state as at the end of March, 2013.

Addressing the press on the financial position of the state for the months of February and March, this year at the Banquet Hall in Yenagoa, Governor Dickson also gave N19.7bn as total balance standing to the credit of the state for the month of February.

In a breakdown of the figures for February, the Governor declared N19.7 as Gross Inflow comprising Statutory Allocation of N2.4bn, Derivation amounted to N10.04bn, while Value Added Tax came racked in N648 million, Subsidy Re-Investment and Empowerment Programme, SURE-P came up to N1.1bn among other items.

On the Outflows, Governor Dickson explained that a total FAAC deduction of N2.38bn consisting of Bond deduction of N1.241bn, Foreign Loan obligation of N11million, Refund of overpayment to the Federal Government on the Excess Crude Account in three tranches of N509.8 million, N187million and N392.8 million was made, leaving a Net Inflow of N17.270bn.

According to the Governor, salaries of Civil Servants gulped N3.817bn, that of political appointees stood at N335 million with monthly overhead payment of N1.1bn while statutory approvals stood at N230 million, gratuity payment of N250 million as well as transfers to the State Compulsory Savings Account of N250 million.

He said the sum of N100 million was remitted to the State owned Niger Delta University for the payment of salary arrears owed its workers, pointing out that actual recurrent expenditure gulped N2.5bn while that of Capital was put at N10bn.

For the month of March, Governor Dickson reported a Gross Inflow of N24.bn made up of Statutory Allocation of N2.3bn, Derivation of N9.5bn, VAT amounting to N658 million, SURE-P stood at N1.068bn while augmentations was put at N10.3bn, noting that there was no disbursement from the Excess Crude Account.

Governor Dickson also stated that N2.38bn was deducted at source by FAAC, giving the breakdown of the figure to include salary obligation for civil Servants as N3.8bn, political appointees N336 million, overheads of N1.1, IGR of N80 million, land acquisition N250 million.

The Governor who used the opportunity to commend the state workforce for their understanding and cooperation on the present tax regime, said revenue accruing to the state coffers has increased to N300 million on a monthly basis.

He also added that the overall monthly IGR came up to N1bn assuring that government would make judicious use of the resources to develop physical infrastructure, create wealth and jobs for the people to get value for their money.

Daniel Markson-Iworiso

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Apr 23 2013

GOV DICKSON INSTITUTES STATE MOVIE TRUST FUND; DONATES N250M, AS FILM CITY PROJECT TAKES OFF

In fulfilment of an earlier pledge made to enhance the movie industry in the country, Bayelsa State Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson has performed the foundation laying ceremony for the Bayelsa film city at the Igbogene axis of the capital city, Yenagoa.
The foundation laying ceremony was part of activities marking the 9th Africa Movie Academy Awards in the State.  Governor Dickson noted that, the film city, when completed will harness and boost the state’s potentials in the tourism and entertainment industries as well as serve as an alternative source of revenue base for the State outside oil and gas.
The all encompassing edifice is expected to accommodate a business district, section for Guild activities, seminar halls, inauguration centres, collapsible set as well as a night club.
Other facilities to be housed in the proposed film city Project include a relaxation centre, helipad, police and fire service stations, village setting for films, water treatment base, power plant, Studies and a Shopping Mall.
The Governor, also used the occasion to announce the institution of the Bayelsa State Indigenous Movie Trust Fund with an initial donation of N250 million.

According to him, the Movie Trust Fund which will be used for the
development of budding talents in the State, will be managed by persons within and outside the State.

While, describing the entertainment industry especially Nollywood as a major employer of labour and an avenue to showcase the rich cultural heritage of the people of Nigeria and a tool for re-branding the country and Africa,  Hon. Dickson urged movie makers to focus more and portray the positive side of the country to the outside world.
The Governor, who alongside some special guests also witnessed a cultural display, stated that efforts will be intensified to use the AMAA awards to showcase the rich cultural endowments of the State with a view to attracting more visitors to the State on regular basis.
According to him, the relevant organs of government will be properly positioned to make new innovations and improvements to the various activities that were put together to celebrate this year’s AMAA at subsequent editions.
The cultural event featured ceremonial and war boat regatta displays, cultural dances as well as traditional wrestling with past and present State, national and continental champions in attendance.
The Eight Local Government area took part in the Boot Regatta with Nembe LGA emerging winners in the Ceremonial Category followed by Brass and Ogbia LGAs, while Southern Ijaw came tops in the war boat regatta display, with Sagbama placing second.
Apr 18 2013

AIRFORCE ENDS DISASTER MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME; BAYELSA GOVT WANTS NAF TO JOIN FORCES WITH NEMA TO MITIGATE EFFECTS OF DISASTERS

L – R: The Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John Jonah (Rtd), Chief of Air staff, Nigerian Airforce, Air Marshal Alex Sabundu Badeh and the Rep. of the COAS, AVM I.H Mohammed at the closing ceremony of Exercise EBIYE RIN (a Civil – Military Operations by the Mobility Command, Nigerian Air force) as part of activities marking its 49th Anniversary, at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Yenagoa


L – R: The Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John Jonah (Rtd), Chief of Air staff, Nigerian Airforce, Air Marshal Alex Sabundu Badeh and the Rep. of the COAS, AVM I.H Mohammed at the closing ceremony of Exercise EBIYE RIN (a Civil – Military Operations by the Mobility Command, Nigerian Air force) as part of activities marking its 49th Anniversary, at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Yenagoa

The Bayelsa State Government has challenged other security agencies to take a cue from the Nigerian Air Force to join forces with the National Emergency Management Agency, (NEMA) to reduce the impact of natural disasters in the country.
Governor Seriake Dickson made the call at the Banquet Hall in Yenagoa, during the closing ceremony of the two- week Civil-Military Operations, code-named “Exercise Ebiye Rin” organized by the Nigerian Air Force.
Represented by the Deputy Governor, Retired Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John Jonah, he said the Air Force has blazed the trail in the state with its invaluable assistance to victims of last year’s flood especially in the provision of free medical care.
On the need to establish the emergency agencies at the state and local government levels, Governor Dickson disclosed that efforts are being made to create a legal framework to set up such agencies and empower their personnel to perform their functions.
Commending the Nigerian Air Force for its role both in war and peace times, the Governor observed that through the Civil-Military operations the NAF has endeared itself to the people.
In her remarks, the Acting Minister of Defence, Dr. Olusola Obada, represented by the Director of Air Force, Mrs Olubunmi Siyanbola expressed the hope thatthe lessons learnt during the exercise would help to alleviate the effects of man-made and natural disasters.
Also speaking, the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshall Alex Badeh, said the aim of the exercise was basically to mitigate the effects of natural disasters as well as build capacity in disaster management.
The Chief of Air Staff, who remarked that the exercise was also used to mark the 49th anniversary of the NAF, appreciated the efforts of NEMA in last year’s flood as well as the state government’s commitment to the conduct of the exercise.
He said the aim of the exercise is to enhance skills in planning, coordination and execution of relief operations in collaboration with Non-Governmental Organizations and donor communities as well as understanding the requirements and challenges involved.
 Earlier in his address, the Air Officer Commanding, Mobility Command, Air Vice Marshall Olufemi Idowu said the exercise did not only provide relief to over 14,000 persons in Bayelsa but also improved the readiness of the Air Force to manage the consequences of any disaster.
In a lecture titled “National Preparedness For Disaster Response: Challenges and Prospects”, the Director-General of NEMA, Alhaji Muhammad Sani Sidi, stated that the 2012 floods displaced 2.3 million people, killed over 363 persons and damaged about 597, 479 houses across the country.
 He stressed the need for the setting up of emergency management agencies at state and local government levels in accordance with the NEMA Act.
Apr 9 2013

BAYELSA POLICE ATTACK: TEN BODIES RECOVERED, FOUR RESCUED ALIVE

… KILLINGS UNACCEPTABLE, CULPRITS WILL FACE FULL WEIGHT OF THE LAW ….GOV DICKSON
A combined team of security operatives on Tuesday recovered the bodies of ten of the slain policemen along the creek of Azuzuama in Southern Ijaw local government area of Bayelsa state contrary to a media reports that perpetrators of dastardly act went away with their bodies.
The development is a pointer to the fact that, contrary to MEND’s claim, the bodies were neither taken away nor the attack carried out by its men.
The recent development has put paid to the fact that, the attack was carried out by a group of disgruntled ex-militants, who have issues to settle among themselves, but have clearly over stepped their bounds by their action.
Confirming the report, the State Commissioner of Police, Kingsley Omire said it took the combine efforts of men of the Joint Security Task Force to ensure the recovery of their corpse.
The affected security gunmen were attacked on their way to Azuzuama last Friday. Four of them, according to the security reports were rescued alive.
In a related development, the State government has debunked the claim that Movement for Emancipation of the Niger Delta was responsible for the attack.
The State governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson, who stated that the killings were unacceptable, noted that there was no iota of truth in the claim that MEND was responsible for the attack.
It will be recalled that, the State Commissioner of Police, CP Omire while briefing newsmen stated that the attack was orchestrated by disgruntled ex-militants.
Restating his administration’s stance on zero tolerance for crime and any form of criminality, the governor assured the bereaved families and the entire people of the state that the security operatives are closing in, on the perpetrators.
The Bayelsa State Government also reassured families of the 12 Policemen killed in the attack that their deaths will not go in vain as Government is determined more than ever before to bring the perpetrators to book.
The statement warned that, the recently appointed State Special Prosecutor and the Special Team is purely geared towards fast tracking the manner and way criminal cases are investigated and prosecuted as well as ensure that culprits receive the right sentences and serve the punishments.
It emphasized that it was unacceptable for persons, who have committed very grievous crimes to only work the streets as free men, because of lack of adequate investigation and prosecution of such criminals, who after a while return to their bad ways and threaten the peace and well being of law abiding citizens of the State.
The statement noted that, henceforth anybody arrested of any offence, especially those that are criminally related are not only going to be thoroughly investigated and prosecuted, but those that are found guilty made to face the full penalties of the law.