Seriake Dickson

**Henry Seriake Dickson (born January 28, 1966) is a Nigerian politician and lawyer who has served extensively in various governmental capacities, most notably as the Governor of Bayelsa State from 2012 to 2020. He is currently serving as a Senator representing Bayelsa West Senatorial District.** **Early Life and Education** Henry Seriake Dickson was born in Toru-Orua in Sagbama Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, Nigeria. He attended Kolokuma Primary School, Bayelsa State, from 1972 to 1978, and continued to Government Secondary School, Toru-Ebeni, in Bayelsa State, where he obtained his West African School Certificate (WASC) in 1983. Dickson obtained a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) degree from Rivers State University of Science and Technology, Port Harcourt, in 1992, and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1993 after attending the Nigerian Law School. **Career Progression** Dickson began his career in the Nigeria Police Force in 1986, serving for a year before resigning in 1988 to pursue his legal studies. After practicing law for several years, he embarked on a career in politics. He served as the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice of Bayelsa State from 2006 to 2007. In 2007, he was elected to the Federal House of Representatives, where he represented the Sagbama/Ekeremor Federal Constituency until 2012. **Gubernatorial Tenure and Major Achievements** Seriake Dickson was first elected Governor of Bayelsa State on February 14, 2012, and was re-elected for a second term in 2016, concluding his tenure in February 2020. His administration was known for its focus on security, education, and infrastructural development. * **Security:** He established the Bayelsa State Security Trust Fund and implemented key security initiatives that led to a noticeable improvement in peace and security across the state. * **Education:** Dickson prioritized education by declaring a state of emergency in the sector. His government provided free primary and secondary education, established numerous boarding schools across the state, and initiated the construction of the Bayelsa State International Cargo Airport. He also founded the Bayelsa State Medical University, the first specialized medical university in Nigeria. * **Infrastructure and Policy:** Notable works include major investments in road networks, healthcare facilities, and civil service reforms aimed at eliminating payroll fraud.**Current Status and Notable Works** Following his tenure as Governor, Dickson successfully contested for and was elected as the Senator representing the Bayelsa West Senatorial District in a by-election in October 2020. He continues to serve in the National Assembly, focusing on legislation related to his constituency and regional development. His notable works include his commitment to institutionalizing good governance and accountability, reflected in the various infrastructure and educational foundations laid during his time as Governor.