Dickson: 2015, very challenging

Governor Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa State on Thursday described 2015 as very challenging, but called on Bayelsans to pray ceaselessly for the state and the country at large.
According to him, the people should learn to adjust in view of the current economic realities occasioned by the steady decline in the price of crude oil in the international market “which has slowed down the development agenda of the restoration government.”
The governor in his New Year Message issued on Thursday in Yenagoa said the economic downturn has adversely affected activities of government at all levels and has become a major source of concern to all Nigerians.
He said: “I want to urge all of us to continue to pray for our state, government and ourselves and families. Year 2015 has been very challenging beginning from the economic downturn in the national economy we have to learn to adjust. At the time that price is low and we don’t have so many people buying our crude oil.”
Dickson also spoke on the re-scheduled governorship election on the January 9 2016 as well as some units in other LGAs in addition to the general security of the state and advised Bayelsans to be alert and cooperate with security agencies towards protecting their communities.
He expressed gratitude to Bayelsans for their solidarity and support over the years particularly their support for his government and his re-election into office for another term as evident in the results declared so far.
Dickson said: “Let me thank all Bayelsans for their show of solidarity and support over the years, particularly for turning out in their numbers to affirm their resolve to re-elect me as their governor, as can be attested to by the results already declared by INEC where we are leading in six out of the seven local governments declared.
“While we are sure of victory even in the supplementary election in Southern Ijaw on January 9, let me urge us all that in the New Year 2016, we must all resolve to toe the path of peace. We must work hard to remain united and firm in our pursuit to work together to collectively build a more peaceful and prosperous Bayelsa State, devoid of hatred, bitterness and acrimony.
“While wishing all Bayelsans, a Happy New Year, it is pertinent to state that this government will keep faith with our commitment to continue to move in greater strides to add value to the lives of our people through purposeful leadership.
“We are determined, even with the poor state of our finances and dwindling resources, to more than ever in this New Year demonstrate our willingness as a government to continue to meet our obligations.”