Bayelsa diversifies economy to attract investment, boost tourism
The Bayelsa State Government says it is repositioning the state’s economy as a preferred destination for investors and tourists through sustained economic diversification.
The Commissioner for Information, Orientation and Strategy, Mrs Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai, stated this at the weekend during a transparency briefing held at the Bayelsa Treasury Building in Yenagoa.
She explained that the state is diversifying into agriculture, the marine and blue economy, marine transport, aviation and tourism as part of efforts to broaden its economic base.
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Nathan Tamarapreye, Yenagoa
The Bayelsa State Government says it is repositioning the state’s economy as a preferred destination for investors and tourists through sustained economic diversification.
The Commissioner for Information, Orientation and Strategy, Mrs Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai, stated this at the weekend during a transparency briefing held at the Bayelsa Treasury Building in Yenagoa.
She explained that the state is diversifying into agriculture, the marine and blue economy, marine transport, aviation and tourism as part of efforts to broaden its economic base.
Koku-Obiyai said the newly installed independent power plant, which is awaiting commissioning, would provide a major boost to existing and prospective businesses in the state.
“Our new 60-megawatt gas turbine has been installed and is awaiting commissioning once the ongoing finishing touches and required engineering processes are completed.
“The project has been prioritised by this administration in terms of funding, with the governor personally supervising the progress of work,” she said.
She added that the Governor Douye Diri-led administration remains committed to transparent and prudent investment in infrastructure, noting that the transparency briefing was organised to keep residents informed about the state’s income and expenditure profile.
“Our ongoing road projects are progressing and achieving new milestones, and we are meeting our funding obligations to contractors,” Koku-Obiyai added.
She further disclosed that the state-owned airline, which recently acquired two aircraft, is awaiting regulatory certifications and approvals from relevant aviation authorities to commence commercial operations.
According to her, the airline, alongside the state’s international airport, will catalyse tourism and business, positioning Bayelsa as an attractive destination for investors and visitors.
Corroborating her remarks, the Technical Adviser to the Governor on Treasury and Accounts, Mr Timipre Seimiebi, who presented the income and expenditure profile for October, November and December, revealed that Bayelsa earns about ₦1 billion monthly as returns from investments.
