By Samuel Oyadongha
YENAGOA—Speaking shortly after the swearing-in ceremony of the the new Deputy Governor, Chief Werinipre Seibarugu, which took place at 9.00am, yesterday in Government House, Yenagoa, Governor Timipre Sylva, directed the new Deputy Governor,  to take charge of three ministries.

They are the Ministries of Agriculture, Sports Development and Local Government and Community Development.

The Governor explained that the Ministry of Agriculture was added to the office of the Deputy Governor,  which he described as the major area of focus of his administration.

Sylva who described Seibarugu as a focused and industrious person, expressed optimism that he would bring his wealth of experience to bear in the running of the affairs of government. He called on him to intensify efforts towards making a difference in the three Ministries,  especially in Sports Development as the next national sports festival approaches.

On Agriculture

On Agriculture, the Governor expressed concern over the nation’s sole dependence on crude oil in funding the economy, adding that if the economy can be diversified,  it would go a long way in accelerating the development of the state.

Sylva who observed that Bayelsa possesses one of the best conditions favourable to rice cultivation, said by 2013, the state will have the capacity to produce rice in commercial quantities.

He also urged Seibarugu  to reach out to the rural dwellers in the administration of local affairs, observing that the role of the Deputy Governor is often misconstrued. He pointed out that the office of the Deputy Governor was to provide assistance in the running of government effectively.

Seibarugu declares loyalty

Responding, Chief Seibarugu expressed appreciation to Governor Sylva for considering him worthy to work with him.

He expressed his support and loyalty to the Governor and promised to put in his best towards ensuring that dividend of democracy is delivered to the people.

He thanked his former colleagues at the State House of Assembly for the co-operation he enjoyed while he was Speaker, and solicited their support towards making his new assignment a success.

First official function

The new Deputy Governor, yesterday performed his first official assignment with the inauguration of five new members of the State Executive Council.

Also, two  Commissioners, Ms Dora Oru of Gender and Social Development and Elder Bethel Amabebe of Sports Development were dropped in the minor cabinet reshuffle.

Those sworn in by Seibarugu were Mr Nathan Egba as Commissioner for Information, Strategy and Orientation, ThankGod Apere as Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development and Opukiri Ere, Commissioner for Sports Development.

Others include Michael Ogbiasa, Commissioner for Special Duties, FCT and the Presidency and Mrs. Gimbra Pamowei, Gender and Social Development.

Seibarugu, who swore in the new members of the state executive council few hours after his own inauguration by the state Chief Judge, Justice Kate Abiri,  urged them to shun corruption and live above board in the discharge of their duties.

He also charged the new Commissioners to fashion out programmes and policies that would help in the development of their respective Ministries.