Bayelsa @ 20: Dickson challenges FG on Brass LNG, others

Bayelsa State Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson has called on the Federal Government to expedite action in kick-starting the Brass Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) for wealth and job creation to boost the economy of the state and the entire country.

According to him, the completion of the East/West Road was a necessity as the section of the project in Bayelsa State is in a deplorable state, causing untold hardship and unnecessary carnage on the road.

Dickson tabled the demands in Yenagoa on SATURDAY evening, during a special Live Radio and Television interview to commemorate the 20thanniversary of the creation of the state and the 56thIndependence of the country.

While describing the Brass LNG as highly profitable when completed, Dickson said, the time has come when appropriate investments should be made in some critical sectors, such as agriculture and the Brass Fertilizer company that could stimulate the national economy.

He, however, acknowledged the efforts of the Federal Government in the construction of some ongoing projects, such as a branch of the Central Bank of Nigeria and federal secretariat, but stressed the need for more intervention in the areas of road construction to open up the state.

The Governor said the greatest challenge facing the state was that of accessibility to the Atlantic Ocean, where most of the crude oil terminals are situated.

He emphasised that the construction of the three senatorial roads would not only boost agro-business, but, also assist in securing critical national assets.

To this end, the Governor Dickson urged the Shell Petroleum Development Company and Niger Delta Development Commission to ensure the completion of the Ogbia-Nembe road, stating that, his administration had already injected N3 billion, in view of the strategic nature of the project.

Dickson urged the Federal Government to “be inclusive in their policies and programmes and also tasked leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state on the construction of projects and not engage in acts that undermine the security and stability of the state.”

He also shared his thoughts on some national issues, contending that “Nigeria would be a better country, if fairness, justice and equality prevail and leaders build bridges of unity to promote cohesion and stability.”