Governor Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa State and his Edo State counterpart, Godwin Obaseki, have resolved to engender regional security and economic integration towards fostering enduring peace and unity among the two states and in the Niger Delta region.
Both Governors also agreed to support and mobilize their states for the restructuring of Nigeria.
A statement signed by Chief Press Secretary to the Bayelsa Governor, Francis Agbo, noted that both leaders spoke on Saturday when Governor Dickson played host to Obaseki in Government House, Yenagoa.
According to Dickson, the report of the All Progressives Congress (APC) on restructuring is a pointer to the fact that all Nigerians regardless of political and ethno-religious backgrounds have adopted a common position on restructuring as a necessity.
His words: “The Governor of Edo State and I discussed a whole range of issues bothering on regional security and economic integration. Issues of peace and security is a necessary condition for development and building bridges of unity. We agreed that we need to do that more often and provide a conducive environment for investments to thrive.
“The report of the APC on restructuring shows that all Nigerians irrespective of political and religious differences are convinced about the need to restructure and they have seen that restructuring has become a necessity.”
While commending Governor Obaseki for his developmental efforts, Dickson said both states would work together towards ensuring peace and stability.
Describing Obaseki as a good friend and brother, Dickson expressed optimism that the historic visit would herald a series of subsequent meetings to rub minds and promote mutual interests for the benefit of both states.
Dickson also called on the Ijaw communities in Edo State to be law-abiding and live peacefully with their neighbours, assuring that their concerns and fears will be addressed by Governor Obaseki.
He promised to, in no distant future, visit Obaseki and the Ijaw communities in Edo State.
Responding, Obaseki said the purpose of the visit was to dialogue with his Bayelsa counterpart on issues of security and strengthen bilateral economic relations.
As chairman of the South/South Governors’ Forum, he said Dickson has a crucial role to play in the enthronement of peace and stability in the region and the country.
