The Bayelsa State Government has called for better collaboration with The Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited (SPDC) to enable more investments in the state and give more value to the people.
Deputy Governor Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo made the call during a recent business meeting with the management of SPDC in Port Harcourt.
“The relationship between Bayelsa State and SPDC is cordial. Thank you for the investments in our state. Thank you for your contributions to support development efforts in the state. But how do we improve on this and bring dividends to our people? There is still so much more to unearth in our state,” Mr. Ewhrudjakpo said.
He added that “this meeting is to see how we can work together to create a suitable environment for SPDC to operate and generate value for all of us. We wish to collaborate and expand your portfolio in Bayelsa State and to see how we can partner to reduce youth restiveness and tackle the increased use of drugs by the youths in the state.”
The deputy governor noted that the state had recorded a huge success using sports to engage youths in the state so as to keep them away from vices particularly drug abuse and violent crimes. The youths have shown that if we give them encouragement, they can deliver good value.
Managing Director, SPDC and Country Chair, Shell Companies in Nigeria Osagie Okunbor said “we support the government’s effort to improve the environment in Bayelsa. Your statement speaks to focus. It means that there is a plan. As a company, we key into your vision because we know that if you are successful, it will help us and help our business environment. We commend you and His Excellency, Governor Douye Diri, for what you are doing to support business in Bayelsa State.”
Mr Okunbor, who was represented by SPDC’s Director and Head, Corporate Relations Nigeria Igo Weli commended Bayelsa State for the successes in sports including the gold medal in Olympic and Commonwealth freestyle wrestling championships won by Baraladei Igali who is currently the state’s commissioner for sports.
