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Waterways: Onniye Commends Government Statewide Sensitisation Tour on Safety Measures

Posted: Sat Aug 23, 2025 9:12 am
by Abigail pereowei
The Executive Chairman of Ekeremor Local Government Area, Hon. Onniye Isaac has commended the Bayelsa State Government for its proactive statewide sensitisation tour and distribution of life vests across Ekeremor LGA.

Speaking during the programme, Hon. Onniye applauded the efforts of the Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Faith Izibenua Zibs-Godwin, for her commitment to promoting safety on Bayelsa waterways.

He stressed the importance of preventive measures on rivers, urging boat drivers and passengers to consistently wear life jackets and use other vital safety equipment.

According to him, the government has taken a bold and commendable step in ensuring that safety remains a priority for boat operators and passengers before setting sail.

The Chairman also extended appreciation to the Executive Governor of Bayelsa State, His Excellency, Senator Douye Diri, for his dedication to addressing safety concerns on the state’s waterways.

He described the prosperity government as one that genuinely has the interest of Bayelsans at heart and further commended the federal government for supporting efforts to strengthen safety regulations.

In her remarks, Dr. Zibs-Godwin expressed gratitude to the Chairman and people of Ekeremor for their warm reception and hospitality.

She noted that she was deeply encouraged by the Chairman’s gesture and the cooperation of chiefs, boat drivers, and stakeholders who turned out massively for the programme.

The Bayelsa State Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, in collaboration with the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), assured that sustained measures will continue to be put in place to address safety challenges on the waterways.

The Commissioner was accompanied by a high-powered delegation, including Engr. Samuel Olali (Permanent Secretary), Mr. Wakedei Davidson Ere (Director, Planning, Research & Statistics), Engr. Saiyou Bekeze (Director, Technical Services), Comr. Ipigansi Ogoriba (Chairman, Marine Workers), Mrs. Diana Alakembi, and other senior officials.

Also in attendance were Hon. Fagi Paleowei (Supervisory Councillor for Education), Chief Edwin Itoko (Supervisory Councillor for Works), Hon. Dukumor Ogbomudia (Supervisory Councillor for Agriculture), Hon. Ebikeme Napoleon (Supervisory Councillor for Special Duties), Hon. Paul Ebibokefie (Coordinator, Bayelsa Waterways, Ekeremor).

The Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy, Council Chairman, and other entouraged was warmly received by the Paramount Ruler of Ekeremor Community, and other respected chiefs.

Thorpe Okokoyoh Henry
Chief Press Secretary to
the Executive Chairman
22 Aug 2025

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