US And Nigerian Governments Cement Socio-Economic Ties
The Bayelsa State Government is to collaborate with the United States of America to explore areas of partnership to further strengthen the socio-economic relationship existing between Nigeria and that country.
Governor Dickson expressed his administration's readiness to partner with the United States government when a 29-member delegation of the United States Department's Bureau of Conflict Stabilization Operations led by its Assistant Secretary, Mr. Rick Barton called on him at Government House, Yenagoa.
He commended the US officials for their efforts at fostering closer ties between the 2 countries and expressed his willingness to interact with them on a number of issues, that could be mutually beneficial to both parties.
His words: “we are very delighted about this visit; I have known a couple of things about the project, that has brought you here. I like to thank you for this very important partnership going forward”
Governor Dickson was of the view that, the visit of the foreign delegation to the state, particularly to Nembe, would afford them the opportunity to have first hand knowledge of the lifestyles of the people as well as create capacity for the youths towards stabilizing communities across the state and possibly, open a vista of opportunities for both countries.
“There is likely to be a lot of possibilities for opening up new frontiers for our young people and for stabilizing our communities and we really look forward to this partnership. I like to also appreciate the wonderful and distinguished Nigerians, who are part of this relationship.
“It is our expectation that after you must have visited Nembe; seen our communities and interacted with our people for who we truly are; on your return, we hope to create some time to interact with you on a whole range of other issues.
Earlier in his remarks, the Assistant Secretary, United States Department's Bureau of Conflict Stabilization and Operations, Richard Barton, said they were on a one day working visit to Nembe Local Government Area of the state to flag off a project concerning the production of a television reality show.
Mr. Barton, who noted that the US recognized the central role Nigeria plays in the success of the African continent with the state being a critical part, he expressed the US government's desire to see a continued peaceful and democratic change in Nigeria.
According to him, peace and stability are crucial elements to the progress of any country and that the initiative will go a long way in engaging youths across the country to get involved in peaceful democratic change.
“The whole point is to make sure that these young people are connected through their governments, societies and make them positive forces for change within communities.”
Also speaking, the US Ambassador to Nigeria, James Entwistle, who was in the entourage, described the visit as an exciting opportunity and a perfect example of the kind of partnership with the countries working closely with the United States.
Daniel Iworiso-Markson
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Bayelsa State