Abuja—The Executive Governor of Bayelsa state, Senator Douye Diri, has stated that his administration will create the enabling environment for investments by the United Kingdom (UK) to thrive in the state.
Governor Diri made this known in Abuja when he visited the United Kingdom High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mrs. Catriona Laing.
A press statement by Mr. Daniel Alabrah, Chief Press Secretary to the governor stated that, Diri called for investment in areas such as agriculture, transportation, education, maritime, aquaculture, ICT among others.
“Bayelsa State has the best potential in Nigeria for the production of rice, cassava, yam, plantain, banana and palm produce.
“Our government is therefore embarking on a massive programme to train our youths in modern form of agriculture in order engage them in productive activities and divert them away from militancy, restiveness and criminal activities.”
The governor, who described the relationship between the United Kingdom and Bayelsa as one that predates the creation of Nigeria, revealed that apart from the Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC), there is no other investment by United Kingdom companies.
“Bayelsa remains one of the main crude oil and gas production states both onshore and offshore. The state provides the best setting for oil and gas investment.
“About 60 per cent of Nigeria’s gas reserve is in Bayelsa and the government has resolved to create the best incentives and operating environment for all British investors through Public Private Partnership (PPP).”
He further called for the establishment of a skills acquisition centre by the United Kingdom in the state that will train and empower youths and women.
Responding, the UK High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mrs. Catriona Laing, while thanking Governor Diri for his visit, declared that the UK is interested in the agricultural sustainability and development of the state.
She solicited more collaboration between states and organizations in areas that will benefit both parties involved.
