Bayelsa State
Bayelsa is a state of Nigeria, with its capital Yenagoa that is with 24 335 inhabitants ( 2005) and largest city. The inhabitants belong to the Izon ( Ijaw ), Nember, Ogbia and Epie - Atisa and are predominantly Christians.
Geography
The state is located in the south of the country, bordered to the north by the Delta State, in the south and west by the Atlantic Ocean and to the east by the Rivers State. The state is located in the western part of the Niger Delta. The Apoi Creek Forest Reserve was included in the List of Wetlands of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention in 2008.
History
The state was formed on 1 October 1996 from part of Rivers State. First administrator was between 7 October 1996 and 28 February 1997 Oladipo Phillips Ayeni. Governor was on 29 May 2007 Timipre Sylva, currently it is Henry Dickson.
List of Governors and Administrators
- Oladipo Phillips Ayeni ( administrator 1996-1997)
- Habu Daura (Administrator 1997)
- Omoniyi Caleb Olubolade ( administrator 1997-1998)
- Paul Obi ( administrator 1998-1999)
- Diepreye Alamieyeseigha (Governor 1999-2005)
- Goodluck Jonathan (Governor 2005-2007)
Management
The state is divided into eight Local Government Areas. These are: Brass, Ekeremor, Kolokuma - Opokuma, Nembe, Ogbia, Sagbama, Southern Ijaw and Yenagoa.
Economy
About thirty percent of Nigeria's oil comes from hundreds of sources in Bayelsa State. However, the oil production and loading also causes significant losses and damages. The vast majority of the working population is in the fishing, agriculture, which employs palm oil and palm wine extraction or a dealer, carver or weaver. Because of the many waterways of the boat is the most important means of transport. The population is among the poorest in Nigeria.