Former Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission(NDDC), Mr Timi Alaibe on Thursday said he is in the race to become the governor of Bayelsa State in order to better the lot of the people of the state.
He spoke in Abuja shortly before picking the nomination form/expression of interest form at the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), National Secretariat.
Noting the unique advantage of Bayelsa State vast coastline and access to the ocean, he said he would run a Blue Ocean Economy and invite private sector capital for the sustainable development of the state.
Speaking further on his economic blueprint, he disclosed that
“My vision for Bayelsa State can be summarised this way: I believe in a shared economic prosperity through government as a social investor and government as an enabler. My vision is to transform Bayelsa State to a centre of sustainable economic development, peace and prosperity. I intend, in my action plan, to focus on areas such as:
1. Economic development through emphasis on the development of a strong private sector
2. Education and Skills Development
3. Health, Housing and Urban Development
4. Critical infrastructure
5. Security, Peace and Social Harmony
6. Institution Building and Entrenchment of a Culture of Good Governance Delivery
These are part of the package I am bringing to governance.”
On the disposition of former president Goodluck Jonathan outgoing Governor Seriake Dickson and others to his aspiration, he said he had carried out “extensive consultation with the stakeholders both at the state and national levels,” adding that “I can only say that I am humbled and overwhelmed at the magnitude of support I have received.”
While admitting that there are other interested aspirants in the race, he pointed out that there was no basis for comparison between him and the others.
According to Alaibe, “There is no need for comparative analysis. I am coming into the race with incomparable wealth of experience both in the public and private sectors. I have never been a failure in anything I set out to do. And I will not fail my people as a governor.
I am compassionate.
I am a bridge builder.
I am a peace advocate
I have strong leadership qualities.
I am success story when it comes to managing human and material resources.
I have a strong network of friends and partners to draw development ideas and resources from at any critical moment for the good of my state.
These are what I am bringing to the table.”
He said Governor Seriake Dickson had done so well in the governance of the state and he would build on his achievements.