STAGE SET FOR FIRST EVER, LIVE GUBERNATORIAL DEBATE IN BAYELSA STATE.

The stage is now set for the first ever live television debate programme featuring candidates in the February eleven governorship election in Bayelsa State. This was one of the decisions reached at a meeting of governorship candidates at the instance of the State Council of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), in conjunction with a non-governmental organization, The Good Governance Project at the NUJ press centre, Ekeki, Yenagoa.
Secretary of the State Council of the NUJ, Mr. Samson Opokuma said the meeting was convened to plan a hitch-free debate to sensitize Bayelsans ahead of the election. He noted that the time had come for party flag bearers to make themselves relevant to the electorate through their manifestoes rather than using other undemocratic means to get into office.
Speaking in the same vein, the Directoe General, Good Governance Project, Mr. Ayiman Bekowei said Bayelsans were yearning for good governance and that the governorship debate would act as a platform for the electorate to identify the most credible candidate to vote for.
Candidates of thirteen political parties attended the meeting.

HEAD OF SERVICE REITERATES GOVERNMENT’S COMMITMENT

The Head of Service of the Bayelsa State Government, Mrs. Gloria Izonfuo has reiterated government’s commitment to recognize and reward Civil Servants who show and demonstrate effectiveness and efficiency in the coming years. She stated this at an end of year get together with staff of the Management and Welfare Service and the Establishments, Training and Pensions Bureau in Yenagoa.

Mrs. Izonfuo commended them and other Civil Servants for their commitment and dedication to duty in the outgoing year and urged them to be more diligent to ensure improved service delivery in the coming year. She noted that although government remains committed to the training and retraining of the workforce, civil servants should also look for other avenues to develop themselves so as to enhance their individual skills.

The highlight of the occasion was the presentation of awards to some outstanding staff in the office of the Head of Service. Those honoured include Mr. Raymond Angaye, Mr. Edoghotu Kingboy and Mrs. Judith Samuel Isenah.

POWER OUTAGE IN SOME PARTS OF YENAGOA

Bayelsans are in jubilant mood to welcome the New Year. With this high expectation, residents of the capital, Yenagoa have pleaded with Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) to ensure availability of power supply during the period. According to residents, the appeal became necessary as it will check the activities of questionable characters that operate under the cover of darkness when there is power outage.

Some areas of the State capital, Yenagoa experienced prolonged period of power outage during the Christmas festivity. Areas affected include Okutukutu, Kpansia, Yenizue-Gene, Ekeki, Akenfa 3, Harbour Road, Ovom, Biogbolo and Opolo among others. While in other areas where electricity bills were paid, residents complained that PHCN did not keep to their contractual agreement with consumers.

They however expressed the hope that similar treatment should not be meted to them during the New Year festivities.

GBARAN-AMA YOUTHS ADVISED TO HARNESS THEIR GOD GIVEN POTENTIALS

The General Manager of the Bayelsa State Broadcasting Corporation, Mr. Okpoitari Diongoli has advised youths of Opokuma clan to harness their God given potentials for the common good of the people. He said this at the end of year ceremony organized by Youths of Gbaran-Ama town in Opokuma clan.

Mr. Diongoli advised the youths that instead of blaming past leaders for the present challenges they face, they should begin to take actions that will secure their future. He went on to identify lack of Education, Social dislocation, superstitious belief system and disrespect to constituted authorities as some of the factors that have hindered development in the Opokuma clan and called for a reversal of the trend. He also admonished the youths to acquire skills and knowledge that will enable them become self-reliant instead of depending on imaginary benefactor or godfather.

The Deputy Amananaowei of Gbaran-ama, Chief Primerose Bilabou and the youth president of the other towns in the clan attended the event.

COMMISSIONER FOR WATER RESOURCES APPEALS TO THE PUBLIC TO PROTECT WATER FACILITIES

The Bayelsa state commissioner for Water Resources, Chief Kuroghoekegha Francis-Itioekeife has appealed to the public to cooperate with the Ministry and Water Board in protecting water facilities in the state especially now that it has commenced twelve hour water supply.

The Commissioner has therefore directed all technical and operational staff of the Ministry and Water Board to report for duty immediately. He said this directive affects staff of Water facilities within the Yenagoa metropolis, including Okaka main water works, Ovom, Civil Servant’s Quarters, Swali, Kpansia and Etegwe water schemes.

It would be recalled that Governor Timipre Sylva had directed the State Ministry of Water Resources to immediately commence improved water supply to the residents of the state capital. Chief Sylva gave this directive while approving more operational fund for the State Water Board at Government House, Yenagoa. He stressed that his administration is determined to meet the World Health Organization’s (WHO) target of one hundred litres of water per person per day.

NIGERIA UNION OF JOURNALISTS PARTNERS WITH THE GOOD GOVERNANCE PROJECT

The Bayelsa State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in conjunction with a non-governmental organization, The Good governance Project will this Thursday meet with candidates of all political parties contesting in the February eleven gubernatorial election in the state. Venue of the meeting scheduled for eleven ‘o’ clock in the morning is the NUJ Press Centre, Azikoro road, Ekeki – Yenagoa.

A statement jointly signed by the secretary of the State NUJ, Mr. Samson Opokuma and the Director General, The Good Governance Project, Mr. Ayiman Bekowei says the intention of the meeting is to discuss the January governorship debate in Yenagoa. They also urged the candidates to take this invitation seriously especially as Bayelsans are very conscious of who should govern them.  

OKPOAMA KINGDOM SET TO INSTALL NEW CHIEFS

As part of events for the Yuletide season, the Amayanabo of Okpoama Kingdom, King Ebitimi Banigo, the twenty-first Okpo of the kingdom will install some outstanding sons of the kingdom as chiefs.This was announced in a press conference by a spokesman to the king, Chief Burufigha Toru-Burufigha in Okpoama in Brass Local Government Area of the state.

Chief Burufigha said the installation ceremony is scheduled to take place at Isele Polo on the thirtieth of this month and enjoined all sons and daughters as well as well meaning Bayelsans to grace the occasion.

EPEBU COMMUNITY DISOWNS COMMITTEE

The acting Obanema of Epebu in Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, the Council of Chiefs and the Community Development Committee (CDC)  as well as the Youth Council have disowned the Peace and Reconciliation Committee, saying it did not have their mandate to dissolve various arms of government.

In a statement issued out, the Chairman of the Chiefs Council, Chief K.D. Okisi-Apiri, the CDC Chairman, Mr. Dema Daufa and the Youth President Mr. Udoji Sunday, said the purported dissolution was null and void. The community also announced that its end of year general meeting will hold on the thirty-first of this month by eleven ‘o’ clock in the morning at the community town hall.

SYLVA CONDEMNS BOMB BLASTS, CAUTIONS AGAINST RETALIATION

Governor Timipre Sylva of Bayelsa State has described the Christmas day bombings in parts of northern Nigeria as “a senseless criminal behaviour by enemies of humanity ”. He, however, pleaded with patriotic Nigerians not to be provoked into reprisals actions.
In a statement in Yenagoa, signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Doifie Ola, Sylva said, “These blasts on Christmas day, targeted at innocent worshippers, are condemnable in every sense of moral rationality. This is a senseless act of violence by enemies of humanity. It is strange to the Nigerian character, and does not honour any faith or tradition. All men and women of conscience in Nigeria must condemn this callousness and contribute their various efforts to the collective task of stopping the mindless terror campaign.”
Sylva commiserated with the bereaved families, the Church in Nigeria, and others. He acknowledged that tempers were rising as a result of the dastardly acts of the extremist elements. But the governor implored Nigerians across the country to resist any temptation to descend into retaliations.
“We should not be provoked into revenge and wasting of more lives by this senseless bloodshed by enemies of humanity. We should rather join hands with the Federal Government in the efforts to isolate and stop the perpetrators.
“This is a time to stand together, faith with faith, nationality with nationality, and culture with culture, to confront this growing threat to our nationhood and common humanity,” Sylva said.
He said, “Jesus Christ, whose birth is being celebrated this season, is a symbol of love and peace. And Mohammed, whose birth we shall also mark in the next month or two, preached peace and harmonious coexistence. It is, therefore, difficult to figure out the source of inspiration of these attackers.” 
The governor called on the security agencies to intensify their intelligence efforts with a view to nipping such terrorist attacks in the bud. 
DOIFIE OLA
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor

26 December 2011

SYLVA URGES MORAL AND DEMOCRATIC REBIRTH AT CHRISTMAS

Governor Timipre Sylva of Bayelsa State has called on the people of the state and Nigerians, generally, to rededicate themselves to the moral values for which Christ came to the world.
In a Christmas message released in Yenagoa by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Doifie Ola, Sylva also urged a renewal of faith in democracy among Nigerians, saying there is no alternative to freedom.
He said, “Jesus Christ, whom we worship and celebrate this season, is an epitome of selflessness, self-sacrifice, and humility. As we mark His birth, we should soberly reflect on the ideals He represents among us and strive to fix them firmly in our minds through practice.
“Christ taught love, forgiveness, compassion, and generosity. He also declared liberty to the world. In the spirit of the season, we should be challenged to make the lifestyle of Christ part of our everyday private and public lives.
“We should also view the democracy we have today as part of the liberty declared by Christ and strive to sustain and defend it.”
The governor urged Bayelsans to use the period to review the achievements, successes, and failure of the year with a view to making necessary amends as they prepare to go into the New Year.
“This is a time when communities and families come together to look back at the activities of the year, and forth at the challenges of the New Year. As we reflect and plan, the life of Jesus Christ, who was born in obscurity and poverty more than 2000 years ago but who is being celebrated the world over, should always encourage us and stir in us hope of a glorious tomorrow, how ever small our beginnings might be,” Sylva said.
The governor wished Bayelsans happy celebration and a fruitful and peaceful New Year


DOIFIE OLA
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor

24 December, 2011.

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DEPUTY GOVERNOR URGES COMMUNITY LEADERS TO SIGN MOU

The Deputy Governor of Bayelsa state, Chief Werinipre Seibarugu represented by his Senior Special Assistant on Oil and Gas, Mr. Tovie Bello has urged community leaders of the four clusters to sign the second phase of Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) to begin implementation of the phase two of the Gbarian-Ubie Integrated oil and gas project.
Chief Seibarugu commended leaders of the various communities for their cooperation and support during the execution of the project and urged them to always sustain the cordial relationship existing between SPDC and them. He made the appeal during the closing ceremony to mark the end of phase one of the Gbarian-Ubie integrated oil and gas project at the Banquet Hall, Yenagoa.
In a good will message, the Ibenanaowei of Gbarian clan, King Funpere Akah commended Shell for completing the project on scheduled. He described the period as a challenging moment for leaders in the area and urged Shell not to place emphasis on signing the new MOU but rather on the development of the communities. The communities are Gbarian/Ekpetiama, Okordia/Zarama, Kolo Creek and Epie/Atissa clusters.
High point of the programme was presentation of certificate of merit to some deserving leaders who have contributed immensely to the successful completion of the project.

GOVERNOR SYLVA’S SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE SPEAKS

The Bayelsa state Governor, Chief Timipre Sylva’s special representative to the people of Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of the, Mrs. Elizabeth Bidei has lauded the people of the area for turning out enmasse during the supplementary voter revalidation exercise.
Mrs. Bidei, speaking to newsmen after monitoring the exercise in all the seventeen wards in the L.G.A, commended Governor Sylva for his leadership and developmental strides. She also called for support from people of the area for the administration of the Chief Sylva at all times.

NIGERIA BAR ASSOCIATION (NBA) LAUNCHES MAGAZINE

The Bayelsa state Chief Judge, Justice Kate Abiri has commended the Yenagoa branch of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) for the launch of the maiden edition of the lawyer publication. She made the commendation while unveiling the lawyers’ magazine at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) press centre Yenagoa, noting that it will go a long way in improving legal practice in the state.

Speaking as Chief Host, Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Anthony Ikoli (SAN) expressed gratitude over the publication and presentation of the magazine describing it as a worthy effort.

In opening remarks, the Chairman of the occasion and General Manager, Bayelsa State Property Development Authority, Mr. Inemo Oruebienekumor called for encouragement and support. He expressed confidence that the magazine will contribute to the body of knowledge and charged members to read widely and constantly if they must excel in their chosen career. Also speaking as a special guest and Chief launcher, Mr. Okey Wali (SAN) expressed delight at the efforts of the Yenagoa branch of the NBA and called for the sustenance of the publication.

MINISTER CHARGES COMPANY TO ADHERE TO SPECIFICATIONS.

Represented by the Deputy Director in-charge of Designs of Architectural Services, Mr. Paul Udeozor, the Minister for Lands, Housing and Urban Development Miss Amah Pepple, charged the contractor handling the Federal Secretariat Complex in Bayelsa state to adhere to specifications. She said this during the formal handover ceremony of the project.

Miss Pepple noted that the secretariat, which is a four-storey building, is expected to accommodate four hundred and ninety eight parastatals when completed and, is expected to be completed in one hundred weeks. She expressed her confidence in the contractor, Trenor Nigeria Limited, saying they will deliver on time.

Receiving the project documents, the Chairman of Trenor Nigeria Limited, Chief Amalete Turner pledged to abide by the specifications in the execution of the project. He thanked the Ministry for the project and promised to deliver on schedule.

INDEPENDENT ELECTORAL COMMISSION (INEC) EXTENDS ONGOING VOTERS REGISTRATION

The Public Relations Officer of the Independent Electoral Commission (INEC) in Bayelsa State, Mr. Timidi Wariowei said the ongoing supplementary voters’ registration exercise in the state has been extended by two days. According to him, the extension is to make up for the first two days that the exercise didn’t take off fully.

Mr. Wariowei used the medium to call on the public especially those who haven’t registered to avail themselves of the opportunity to register and vote in next year’s February Governorship election in the state.

BAYELSA STATE MICRO-CREDIT ADMINISTRATION AGENCY PARTNERS WITH SHELL PETROLEUM DEVELOPMENT COMPANY

The Director General of the Bayelsa State Micro-credit Administration Agency (BSMAA), Mr. Tom Owugha during the closing ceremony of a three week entrepreneurship training programme organized by the Agency in collaboration with Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC), charged the participants to put the skills acquired to profitable use. He said the training was organized in line with the Agency’s mandate of empowering Bayelsans and reducing poverty.

Mr. Owugha assured the participants of the willingness of the agency to help them access funds to set up small scale businesses. He also announced the agency’s plans to use Yenagoa as host of the South-South office of the Central Bank of Nigeria Entrepreneurial Development Centre as way of making Bayelsans self-reliant. He thanked SPDC for its support and urged them to continue identifying with the agency.

Also speaking, the Chairman and Chief Executive of the Center for Policy and Strategic Research, Professor Bedford Fubara urged the trainees to look inwards and build on the skills acquired from the training rather than depend on government. He praised the efforts of the Micro Credit Agency and Shell in putting the training together and called for sustenance.

GOVERNOR SYLVA PROMISES AWARDS TO DESERVING ATHLETES OF BAYELSA STATE.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of the third edition of the Governor Sylva national wrestling classics held at the Samson Siasia sports stadium, Governor Timipre Sylva promised that athletes who won medals at the seventeenth National Sports Festival in Port Harcourt would be given cash awards for their efforts before the Christmas. He said this would be his Christmas gift to the athletes for their efforts at the Garden City Games.

The Governor further assured that the houses promised veteran wrestlers in the state would be ready for occupation next year, pointing out that budgetary provision for this has been made. He also disclosed that all the winners of the various weight categories of the wrestling classic who qualified automatically for the African Championships coming up in Njamena, Chad next year would be sponsored by government for overseas training. Chief Sylva also donated an eighteen seated bus to the Nigerian Wrestling Federation as part of government support to the body.

Earlier, Governor Timipre Sylva had performed the foundation stone-laying ceremony for the construction of an ultra-modern gymnasium at the Samson Siasia sports Stadium. Highlight of the closing ceremony of the wrestling classic was the presentation of a medal to Governor Sylva by the National Wrestling Federation as recognition of the achievement of Bayelsa state wrestlers who has dominated the Nigerian and African wrestling landscape.

NIGERIA MEDICAL ASSOCIATION (NMA), BAYELSA STATE CHAPTER ORGANISES HEALTH WALK

In an interview with a Radio Bayelsa Staff reporter during the “Health Walk” campaign organized by the state chapter of the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) in Yenagoa, Dr. Benson Dagidi, the commissioner of Health, stressed the need for bayelsans to guard against drug abuse. According to him, wrong use of drugs causes resistance to disease and urged sick persons to consult qualified medical doctors for the right prescription of drugs.

In his speech, the State Chairman of the Association, Dr. Seiyefa Brisibe stated that the essence of the Health Walk Campaign was to reawaken the importance of exercise to the wellbeing of the individual. He also said that the event which is part of activities to mark the “Physician Week” of the NMA is a wake-up-call for the public to take their health status more seriously.

The Head of Department Mental Health at the Federal Medical Center, Dr. Princess Kemelagha and the member of the organizing committee Dr. Orukari Gbanaibolou described the event as very relevant to the health well being of the public.

BAYELSA GETS NEW COMMISSIONER AND FOUR SPECIAL ADVISERS

Delivering his charge to the newly sworn in commissioner and four Special Advisers at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Yenagoa, Governor Timipre Sylva emphasized on increased service delivery. He also urged the appointees to work assiduously to make the difference in their various offices.

Governor Sylva challenged them to live up to the high expectations of the government and people of the state, stating that they were carefully chosen based on merit. He also admonished the new commissioners to harness the talents abound for technological advancement of the state.

Governor Timipre Sylva enjoined the Special Adviser on Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) matters, Mr. Bai Ineikedou, to liaise with the leadership of the commission to attract viable projects such as construction of major roads to link up the state. Mr. Fitgerald Olorogun is to serve as commissioner for Legal Education, Conflict Resolution as well as employment generation, while the Special Advisers are Mr. Seimiegha Agbozu for Cultural Matter, Mr. Carter Cleopas for Inter-party matters, Mr. Stanley Braboke - Science and Technology. Also, Mrs. Tonbofa Ashimi was inaugurated as the new Director General, Due Process and E-governance Bureau.

SAVE YOUR LIFE AND OTHERS AS YOU OBEY TRAFFIC RULES

In  developing the state, road users have been advised to avoid drinking alcohol, making calls and over speeding during the yuletide season. The State Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps, Alhaji Baba Halilu gave this piece of advice during the ‘ember’ month enlightenment campaign at the Ekeki Motor Park in Yenagoa. According to him, in compliance with the United Nations decades in action for road safety, the Bayelsa State Command has embarked on awareness campaign and enforcement of traffic rules.

Alhaji Halilu noted that most of the road accidents during the yuletide period are largely caused by human factors and advised motorists to obey traffic rules. The Chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers Bayelsa State Council, Comrade Eribo ThankGod appealed to the state government to remove all abandoned vehicles on roads and erection of road furniture for traffic regulation.