19th July, 2014
President Goodluck Jonathan has charged the people of Bayelsa state to engage in vigorous undertakings to speed up the economic development of the state.
Jonathan gave the charge in Yenagoa during the opening ceremony of the first Bayelsa Investment and Economic Forum (BSIEFORUM).
The President, who was represented by Vice President Namadi Sambo, described the economic forum as a great opportunity to secure and acquire knowledgeable ideas to diversify the economy.
“You have to pay attention to agriculture on land and sea because the importance of farming to economic growth cannot be neglected.
“The government itself should place the business of agriculture and education on high priority; focus should also be given to infrastructure; these are the major keys for development.
“Bayelsa has been beautiful for investment right from its creation in 1996; the state is undoubtedly green in vegetation and green for investment opportunity.
“I will also like to urge the state government to redouble efforts in securing peace and security in Bayelsa and in all of the Niger Delta states,” he said.
In his address, Governor Seriake Dickson said the state was poised to advance the available investment opportunities, describing the economic forum as a clarion call to all Bayelsans.
“Today’s programme is not going to be talk show but basically on workshop to enlighten the potential businessmen and women on the need to diversify the economy.
“We are going to get the youths back to production in order to develop the endless potential that abound in the state for investment.
“Our land must be used for wealth creation; I urge the youths to get involved in food production and I must say that we are ready to partner with the private sector to exploit the business ideas. Bayelsa is a virgin waiting for a bride for business; our land and sea are very ripe for business.
“I welcome all investors to the state and I must assure you that we have a conducive environment for a growing economy,” he said.