News
Bayelsa Pledges Support For Traditional Rulers
Governor Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa State has pledged that
his administration will continue to accord respect and support to the
traditional institution in the scheme of things.
Governor Dickson made the pledge while speaking at the
coronation of the new Pere of Tarakiri Kingdom, King Richardford Orukaribai
Koroye at Ebedebiri Community in Sagbama Local Government Area.
Describing the institution as a veritable instrument of
development and social mobilisation of people in the society, the Governor
noted that traditional rulers serve as bridge-builders between the past and
present.
Hon. Dickson lauded the chiefs and people of Tarakiri for
the peaceful election and coronation, noting that with the emergence of a new
monarch, the clan has succeeded in putting behind them “a past that appears to
be not too pleasant”.
Governor Dickson who described the Pere as a man of honuor
and team builder, urged him to use his wealth of experience to promote unity
and progress in the Kingdom.
While pledging support to the Pere, the State chief executive,
challenged the clan to initiate a fund-raising for the building of a befitting
hall for future coronation as well as serve as a rallying point and other
important activities of the clan.
Earlier in his remarks, the former Regent and Chairman of
Tarakiri Council of Chiefs, Chief John
Brambaifa stated that the election of the paramount ruler has opened a new
vista of opportunities for more cooperation and unity among the people.
He thanked the people for their support, understanding and
cooperation throughout the period he acted as regent which, according to him,
culminated in the smooth conduct of elections and coronation of the new Pere.
Also speaking, Chairman of the State Council of Traditional
Rulers, HRM King Godwin Igodo expressed delight at the peaceful conduct of the
Tarakiri people, while congratulating the new Pere on his coronation.
King Igodo said the
council was ready to officially receive and present him with his staff of
office.
In his speech, the Pere of Tarakiri Kingdom, King Richardford
Koroye promised to run an all-inclusive administration with a view to fostering
more unity and progress.
The royal father expressed appreciation to Governor Dickson,
Chiefs and all who contributed to the success of the event.
King Koroye who served as a commissioner under the late
Chief Melford Okilo’s administration in Old Rivers State, obtained a B.Sc
degree in Civil Engineering from the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria in 1966.
He was elected as the seventh Pere of Tarakiri on 15th
September 2012 at Agbere community.
Former Acting Chairman of the Tarakiri Council of
Traditional Rulers, Chief John Brambaifa assisted by High Chief Shagamu Eberiye
performed the crowning and beading of the new monarch.
The 2025 annual general meeting (AGM) and conference of the Rivers/Bayelsa states chapter of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has come to a close with a strong call for both states to drive the blue economy.
The communique just issued after the AGM pointed to what it called emerging prospects in fish processing, seaweed cultivation, ship repair, and marine technology.
The communique which also mentioned human capital gaps that must be filled through technical and vocational training that are aligned with modern industrial needs, said the blue economy represents a viable pathway for Nigeria’s industrialisation.
It said MAN and Arican Marine Environment Sustainability Initiative (AFMESI) have the capacity to unlock Nigeria’s blue economy sustainably and inclusively, but said the region required dedicated infrastructure upgrades, including roads, waterways, and power.
The communique was signed by Vincent Okuku (Chairman of Rivers/Bayelsa States Branch); Michael Nosa Agana (Branch Vice Chairman/Chairman AGM planning Committee); and Chibuzor Eze (Executive Secretary, Rivers/Bayelsa States Branch).
The resolutions said the future of the Niger Delta economy lies in diversification rather than dependence on extractive industries. “Technology and innovation, value addition and local processing, strategic infrastructure, and a skilled workforce are essential pillars for the future of manufacturing in the region.
“Governments in the region must intensify support for manufacturing activities. Various forms of collaboration across sectors should be actively encouraged.”
It specifically advised Bayelsa and Rivers States to fully develop and harness the blue economy as strategic gateways for sustainable growth; and called for cross-border partnerships with neighbouring states to enhance trade, security, and environmental management.”
The Rivers/Bayelsa States branch of MAN held its first (41st) AGM outside Port Harcourt for the first time, hosted by Bayelsa State Government at the Chief D.S.P. Alamieyeseigha Memorial Banquet Hall, with the theme: ‘Trade, Technology, and the Future of Manufacturing in the Niger Delta.’
In his welcome address, the chairman of the branch, Okuku, commended the Bayelsa State Government under the leadership of Gov Douye Diri for its efforts in industrial development, investment promotion, and strong partnership with the private sector.
He also acknowledged the Rivers State Government for its commitment to rehabilitating industrial clusters, improving access roads, and delivering key infrastructure.
He, however, expressed concern over persistent challenges such as high energy costs, unreliable electricity supply, weak transport systems, rising logistics expenses, multiple taxes and levies, inconsistent regulatory frameworks, and pressure from host communities, which continue to hinder manufacturing growth in both states.
The President of MAN, Francis Meshioye, noted that the Niger Delta, with its abundant resources and strategic location, holds vast potential for industrial expansion. He called for policy frameworks that promote local manufacturing, enhance trade, and attract investments to the region.
Goodwill messages were delivered by the Minister of the Federal Ministry of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh, represented by Wasa Festus, Director of Community Development and Education. Another goodwill message was also presented by the Bayelsa State Commissioner for Trade, Industry and Investment, Ebieri Jones.
In his remarks, Gov Diri praised MAN for its contributions to Nigeria’s manufacturing sector, noting its resilience, innovation, and strategic role in national development. He stated that the conference theme aligns with his administration’s mantra of “Assured Prosperity.”
Gov Diri offered 24-hour service to manufacturers wishing to relocate to the state, and highlighted the State’s ongoing transformation through deliberate investment in infrastructure, security, and human capital aimed at positioning Bayelsa State as a hub for industrial growth, particularly in the blue economy, agriculture, and manufacturing.
He further noted that hosting the 41st AGM fulfilled a long-desired aspiration of the State following the successful 2024 MAN event in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. He officially declared the exhibition open.
The Nigerian Education Loan Fund has alerted the public to a fraudulent message circulating online, claiming that the NELFUND Student Loan Registration Portal is open.
The message directs applicants to a third-party link (http://gvly.xyz/Nelfund-Student-Loan, which NELFUND confirms is unauthorised and fraudulent.
In a post obtained from its X handle, yesterday, NELFUND urged students and the general public not to click on the link or provide any personal information, emphasising that the official loan registration portal is only accessible through the Fund’s verified channels.
The agency reminded applicants to exercise caution online and to report any suspicious links or communications claiming to be from NELFUND.
“Applicants are encouraged to always verify official announcements via NELFUND’s official website and social media channels,” NELFUND said.
This advisory comes as part of NELFUND’s ongoing efforts to safeguard students and ensure the integrity of the student loan application process.
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