BMU STRENGHTENS PARTNERSHIP TIES WITH THE PRESIDENTIAL AMNESTY PROGRAMME (PAP) AS COLONEL MILLAND DIXON DIKIO (RTD), INTERIM ADMINISTRATOR OF THE PROGRAMME VISITS THE INSTITUTION- FRIDAY 25^TH JUNE, 2021.

Professor E.N. Etebu, Vice Chancellor of the University welcomed the interim administrator and his team on behalf of Emeritus Professor Nimi D. Briggs (OON), Pro Chancellor and Chairman of Council, the Governing Council, Senate, Management and staff of the University. He reiterated the  importance of such a visit to the Establishment for a second time in less than a month as proof that the collaboration between both organizations was growing stronger by the day.

Professor Etebu took out time to appreciate the role played by one of the visiting team members, Rtd. Major Lancelot Anyanya whom he said also played a vital role in securing the enlistment of Bayelsa Medical University in Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND).

The Vice Chancellor recalled how the Bayelsa Medical University started from humble beginnings when the former Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson in his wisdom gave a breath a fresh air to the 500 bed hospital by establishing a Medical University to help close the lacuna in the health sector in the State with the aim of resuscitating the moribund  hospital.

The erudite Professor of Pathology stressed the efforts of Senator Douye Diri, Executive Governor of Bayelsa State and the prosperity Government  in sustaining BMU as well as ongoing efforts at ensuring the hospital (BMUTH) becomes functional in no distant time to render services to Bayelsans. He informed the august visitors from the Presidential Amnesty Programme that the accreditation process for programmes of BMU was ongoing and will take place in stages as the University is desirous to see its students graduate in record time. According to the VC, the current 200 level students of the Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences studying Anatomy, Physiology and Biochemistry will eventually move to the Faculty of Clinical Sciences and proceed to do their clinicals at the BMU Teaching Hospital (BMUTH).

In the words of the Vice Chancellor, BMU intends to add other related medical professional programmes such as Dentistry, Pharmacy, Medical Laboratory Sciences, Nursing, Physiotherapy, Radiography, Bio-Engineering and Optometry. He acknowledged that the PAP had done well so far in developing manpower for the Niger Delta region through training programmes abroad and called on the Interim Administrator to redirect the training of manpower to indigenous educational institutions such as BMU for cost effectiveness and to carter for more students. He described Col.  Dikio (Rtd) as a man of his words for keeping to his promise to visit BMU once more.

In response, the Interim Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, Col. Milland Dixon Dikio expressed delight on the warm reception accorded him and his large team, stating that his visit was on an official capacity as interim administrator of the Programme to experience first hand what the institution was doing and strengthen the already existing relationship between both bodies.

He explained that the presidential amnesty office was established by President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua in 2009 to tackle the economic losses, the deteriorating security situation in the region, to restore oil production to pre-amnesty level, reduce the scale of insecurity in the region as well as develop critical human capacity building and closing the development gap of the region. He praised the Vice Chancellor for surrounding himself with young, vibrant and intelligent professionals who are saddled with the task of managing the university.

The interim administrator recounted how not quite long ago, some members of the BMU Governing Council such as Emeritus Professor Nimi Briggs, Ambassador Boladei Igali and Professor E.N. Etebu, paid him a visit in Abuja and had fruitful discussions on the need to train more professionals in the region in both medical and allied medical sciences and  promised to optimize the ties between BMU and PAP. He noted, “we all want the same thing which is to make the Niger Delta the best place to live and do business in Nigeria.”

Speaking further, the interim administrator emphasized that it is key for institutions of learning in Nigeria to provide teaching in both character and learning adding that beneficiaries of PA scholarship programmes should consider such as a privilege and not a right. He seized the opportunity to state that the PAP has restructured the process of scholarships award in favour of disciplines that are very relevant to the development of the Niger Delta and considering the abysmal number of medical personnel, the PAP would continue to support and award more scholarships to students  within the resources available.

He ended his remark by praising the Vice Chancellor, for thinking outside the box and reaching out to the Presidential Amnesty programme for the purpose of developing medical manpower in the region.

ABRIDGED PROFILE OF COLONEL MILLAND DIXON DIKIO (RTD)

Colonel Milland Dixon Dikio (Rtd) is from Mbiama in Ahoada West Local Government Area of Rivers State. He attended Baptist High School, Port Harcourt (1971-1975). He was admitted into Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) 21st Regular Combatant Course and was appointed the Academy Cadets Adjutant in recognition of his leadership qualities.

He was posted to the elite Nigerian Army Armored Corps on commission as a Second Lieutenant effective Jan 03, 1977. He is a seasoned professional who held command, diplomatic, staff and teaching appointments. He was decorated with ECOMOG, OAU and UN Peacekeeping medals. His conflict resolution credentials were honed and tested during his numerous field engagements and policy advisory roles at both local and international levels. His flair for languages enables him to communicate effectively in whatever environment he is deployed.

He voluntarily retired in the rank of Colonel in July 2004 and was noted for his high standard of discipline, excellence and integrity. Some of the courses and workshops that positively impacted his career were: French Language Course, Center For Foreign Languages, University of Benin Cotonou, Benin Republic Jul 04-Sep 05,1980; Tank Company Commanders Course, International Military School, Simferopol USSR Dec 01,1989-Apr 26,1990 and the Senior Division Staff Course, Command and Staff College, Jaji-Kaduna Aug 1993–Jul 1994.

He was recalled as a Directing Staff Apr 1997 – Apr 1999 to teach at both the Junior and Senior Divisions and earned the coveted psc+ award. He attended African Centre for Strategic Studies (ACSS), National Defense University, Washington DC 1st Sub-Regional Senior Leadership Seminar on Preventing Conflict in West Africa, Accra Ghana Aug 20-24, 2001 and Exercise Combined Endeavor, US European Command (EUCOM), Ramstein Germany May 16-24, 2001.

He was a Resource Expert – Terrorism Curriculum Review Seminar, ACSS Washington DC, Dec 03-07, 2001 and Participant – The Role of Sub-Regional Organizations in the Prediction and Prevention of Conflict, French War College Paris France May 15-June 15, 2002. His appointments include: Instructor NDA, Staff officer Administration, Headquarters 21 Armoured Brigade, General Staff Officer Internal Security, Army Headquarters and Military Assistant to The Chief of Training, Operations and Plans, Defense Headquarters.

He commanded the Nigerian Contingent of Military and Police UN Observers in Angola. As Commanding Officer NIBATT 37 ECOMOG, Sierra Leone he was responsible for securing the major land approaches into Freetown, the Child Soldiers rehabilitation Camp in Orogu and Disarmament Camp in Newton. He successfully carried out the special mission to dislodge Sam Bockerie, a notorious Revolutionary United Front Rebel considered inimical to the success of the Sierra Leone peace process without casualties.

In order to stop cross border rebel activities that had the potential to drag Guinea and Liberia into war, he led an Advance team in Nov 2000 that conducted an extensive reconnaissance mission throughout the length of the Guinea-Liberia borders in his capacity as the Military Adviser/Principal Programme Officer Peacekeeping at ECOWAS Executive Commission.

He subsequently presented the report at the Meeting of the Foreign Ministers of the Mediation and Security Council and The Summit of Heads of State and Government in Bamako Mali in Dec 2000 which was highly commended. Dixon developed the Concepts and Structures of ECOWAS Standby Forces, the military component of ECOWAS Mechanism on Conflict Prevention, Management, Resolution, Peacekeeping and Security which was adopted by the African Union as the model for other Sub-Regional Organizations in Africa.

He was the Point Officer – Design Team, ECOWAS Early Warning System in collaboration with EUCOM. Dixon also played a prominent role in negotiations with insurgents in Cote d’Ivoire, Liberia and Sierra Leone which set the stage for the signing of peace accords in those countries. He was a member of the first ECOWAS Mediation and Security Council Verification of Government of Liberia compliance with UN Security Council Resolution 1343(2001) Apr 19-24,2001.

He was an accredited member of ECOWAS team in the International Observers Group that monitored the Mar 09-11, 2003 Zimbabwe Presidential Election. ACSS also appointed Dixon as a Senior Rapporteur for the West African Ministerial Symposium it conducted in Dakar Senegal July 22-23, 2003 and was lead presenter at the AU-ECOWAS-G8 Countries Clearing House Meeting on Peacekeeping in Africa at the State Department Washington DC October 07-08, 2004.

As CEO Consul Consultants Limited, he was at various times the Security Consultant to the Federal Inland Revenue Service and ECOWAS Executive Commission. The Center for Development and Democracy contracted him to produce the documents and organize workshops aimed at operationalizing ECOWAS Mechanism on Peace and Security. He is currently, the interim administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme.He is happily married with children.

LAURELS, ACOLADES KEEP FLOWING- AS BMU VC RECEIVES FELLOWSHIP AWARD-  FRIDAY, 28^TH MAY 2021.

 The Vice Chancellor of the Bayelsa Medical University (BMU), has again come under National spotlight  as the Waste Management Society of Nigeria(WMSN) conferred on him a fellowship award in a low key ceremony held at the Council Chambers of the University.

The Vice Chancellor of the Bayelsa Medical University (BMU) Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Professor Ebitimitula Nicholas Etebu has been inducted as an Honourary Fellow of the Waste Management Society of Nigeria. The award which was conferred on him at the 3rd International Waste Summit in Porthacourt at the Hotel Presidential on the 20th of May 2021, was as a result of his role and contribution towards the advancement of Healthcare Waste Management  in Nigeria.

Speaking on the rationale for selecting Professor Etebu for the highly revered fellowship award, Mr. TOBIN West, representing the  chairman of the Waste Management Society of Nigeria noted that the award was hinged on his monumental contributions to the development of waste management in Nigeria.

He said: “Professor Etebu’s emergence as a Fellow of the Waste Management Society of Nigeria is a result of careful consideration of his intellectual and material contributions to the advancement of waste management in Nigeria both as Professor of Pathology, as a former Medical Director of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Yenagoa, as the former commissioner for Health in Bayelsa State as well as the Vice Chancellor of the Bayelsa Medical University.

”Professor Etebu has shown demonstrable commitment in the areas of waste management recently when he built an incinerator with the help of the State Government located within the premises of the University, and we are convinced that he would bring his wealth of experience to bear in making BMU a force to be reckoned with in Nigeria and beyond”

In his acceptance speech, Professor Ebitimitula N. Etedu, Vice Chancellor of  the Bayelsa Medical University, thanked the Waste Management Society of Nigeria for recognizing his modest contribution to the advancement of special waste Management in Bayelsa State and Nigeria, noting that one of the surest ways to prevent the spread of pandemics such as Covid-19, SARS, cholera, Ebola and others is through massive investment in proper special waste management, and advised governments at all levels to focus more on prevention rather than cure if the nation is to move forward health-wise.  The Professor of Pathology  added that he was not going to rest on his oars until the vision of the Bayelsa Medical University is achieved.

Other Management members present at the ceremony were, Professor PJ. Alagoa, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Dr. Victor Idiedo, University Librarian,  Barrister John Tatcher Esquire Legal Adviser and Dr. Marie Teibowei PRO/Ag. Dir IFL-BT.

JONATHAN IS THE GRAND PATRON OF BMU!

EMERITUS PROFESSOR NIMI D. BRIGGS (OON) & TOP NIGERIAN ACADEMICS DECORATE DR. GOODLUCK JONATHAN (GCFR, GCON) AS GRAND PATRON OF THE BAYELSA MEDICAL UNIVERSITY(BMU) AS JONATHAN PLEDGES TO PULL HIS WEIGHT TO ATTRACT FUNDING TO THE UNIVERSITY- MONDAY, 7^TH JUNE 2021.

Former President of Nigeria and Chairman of the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Azikiwe Jonathan (GCFR, GCON) was decorated on Monday when the Pro Chancellor and Chairman of the BMU Governing Council, Emeritus Professor Nimi D. Briggs led other members of Council including the Vice Chancellor, Professor Ebitimitula N. Etebu and Principal officers of the University to the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation’s Head Office in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State on a courtesy visit.

                    Remarks by Emeritus Prof. Nimi D. Briggs, Pro Chancellor /Chairman of Council. 

The Goodluck Jonathan Foundation, founded by the former President of Nigeria is an independent non-governmental organization established in 2015 for the advancement of peace and prosperity on the African continent, dedicated to promoting peace and reconciliation, advancing democratic governance, advocating for inclusive governance and economic development, promoting citizen’s rights, and continental and national integration.

The BMU delegation was in the former President’s Office in Yenagoa to thank him for the role he played in ensuring that BMU came into existence with late Chief DSP Alamieyeseigha which resulted in the building of the 500-hundred bed hospital. The visit was equally to brief him of events lined up towards achieving accreditation for the University as well as formally inform him that BMU is doing well and will need the cooperation of every Bayelsan, as well as make a case for the former President to associate himself with BMU so as to grow its potential, funding and partnerships.

Leader of the delegation, Emeritus Professor Nimi D. Briggs (OON), in his remarks, explained that he was impressed with the former President’s genuine commitment to national development and his contributions to the growth of education in the country. He noted that he was delighted at the profile and personality the former president has consistently maintained and exhibited within and outside Nigeria. He commended the foresight of the former President in trying to secure the health of Bayelsa people and by extension Nigeria. He stated that “whenever you want the life of an institution to continue in perpetuity, set an educational component to it”. This was the idea behind the establishment of BMU from the 500 hundred bed hospital.

 Speaking further, the Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology noted that having been granted approval for some programmes by Nigerian Universities Commission (NUC), BMU has now formerly been baptized and accepted in the comity of higher education institutions in the nation. With over 300 students with some now at the 200 level, BMU was about to go into the next phase, which will involve clinical subjects, this was the perfect time for the 500 hundred bed hospital to be up and running for students to learn practically and do bed side learning to produce the first set of doctors in the next four years.

                Remarks by Dr. Jonathan, Chairman Goodluck Jonathan Foundation.

On his part, His Excellency Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan welcomed the BMU team and thanked the Pro Chancellor for honoring him and his wife with the decoration.  The Former President used the opportunity to congratulate the former Governor of Bayelsa State, Sen. Seriake Dickson for the establishment of BMU. He stated that irrespective of the arguments for or against the setting-up of BMU, its establishment will help Bayelsa State and neighboring states.

The former president expressed delight at the caliber of persons that constitute the Governing Council and Management of BMU noting that they are one of the best in the Country. He noted that having these personalities as Pioneer Governing Council members the University was bound to succeed adding that the Bayelsa was grateful to have Pro Chancellor, of the caliber of Prof. Nimi Briggs.

Dr. Jonathan further stated that universities are international centers of learning therefore there must be diversity in the workforce. He pledged his full support to the development of the only Medical University in the State and the second public Medical University in Nigeria.

Dr. Goodluck Ebele Azikiwe Jonathan (GCFR, GCON ) holds a bachelor’s degree in Zoology, a Masters in Hydrobiology and Fisheries Biology; and a Doctorate in Zoology from the University of Port Harcourt.  He served as the President of Nigeria from 2010 to 2015. Prior to that, he served as Vice President of Nigeria from 2007 to 2010 and as Governor of Bayelsa State from 2005 to 2007.

Since leaving office, Jonathan has continued to contribute greatly to the development of Nigeria. In 2019, he was appointed Honorary Special Adviser to the Bayelsa Education Trust Fund Board. In June 2019, Goodluck Jonathan emerged as chairperson of the newly inaugurated International Summit Council for Peace (ISCP). In July 2020, Jonathan was appointed Special Envoy of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS); to lead mediation talks during the 2020 Malian protests.

The team from BMU on this visit was made up of the following:

MERITUS PROFESSOR NIMI BRIGGS (OON), EMERITUS PROFESSOR OF OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY, PRO CHANCELLOR AND CHAIRMAN OF COUNCIL .

Prof. Nimi Briggs is a Nigerian academic, scholar an Emeritus Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology. He served as Vice-Chancellor of University of Port Harcourt twice, from 1995 to 96 and 2000 until 2005. He is former Chairman Committee of Vice Chancellors of Nigerian Universities and the Chairman of the Board of the National Hospitals. Between 2007 and 2008.  He was Pro-Chancellor Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike. He is Chairman, Board of Sports Institute, University of Port Harcourt.  He received a National Service Act of Bravery Award for his Military duty during the Nigerian civil war. He “fought” for the unity of Nigeria during the 30-month long Nigerian Civil war, when he served as a Field Captain (Medical Officer) with the Nigerian Army at the 3 Field Ambulance of 3 Division, Nigerian Army. His publications and academic contributions are uncountable. To name but a few, his Professional and Academic achievements include: Member of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, London (MRCOG), Fellow of the Nigeria Medical Council in Obstetrics and Gynecology (FMCOG), Fellow of the West African College of Surgeons (FWACS), Fellow of the International College of Surgeons (FICS), Fellow of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, London (FRCOG), Fellow Nigerian Academy of Science (FAS). He has over 50 honours, distinctions, scholarships and awards, over 50 career positions/appointments, important services to tertiary educational and health institutions and management organizations. He has over 47 external examination/evaluation, full registration as a Medical Practitioner General Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria, Educational Council For Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG), over 50 professorial inaugural lecture and valedictory lectures, over 18 books published, over 39 Consultancy to Government and Non-Governmental Organizations. He has contributed to National Development with the treatment of patients with Vesico-Vaginal Fistual (VVF) and pioneering the campaign for Safe Motherhood in Northern Nigeria, appointed member of a 10 persons strategy advisory committee (STRADVCOM) to assist the National Universities Commission in its determination to urgently revitalize the Nigerian Universities System.

HON DR. GENTLE EMELAH, COUNCIL MEMBER AND COMMISSIONER FOR EDUCATION BAYELSA STATE.

Holder of a Master's Degree from the Federal University of Technology, Owerri, where he bagged his MBA in Human Resource Management (HRM). Holder of a Doctorate degree in Management at the unique University of Port Harcourt.  He began his political career when Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan as Governor appointed him Commissioner in the Bayelsa State House of Assembly Service Commission from 2006 to 2008. Former Bayelsa State House of Assembly to represent Yenagoa Constituency III, in the 4th and 5th Assembly (2011-2019). Fellow of the Institute of corporate administrators, a fellow of the National institute of strategic administrator

AMBASSADOR DR. GODKNOWS BOLADEI IGALI (OON), COUNCIL MEMBER

 A man with excellent hose writing skills, a Nigerian public servant, diplomat, author and scholar, a former Nigerian ambassador to the Scandinavian countries - Sweden, Denmark, Finland and Norway, a Federal Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Water Resources,  a Ph.D in political and international studies from University of Venezuela, masters in international law and diplomacy, he received the national honours of the Officer of the Order of the Niger, (OON), a distinguished himself as an expert on economic diplomacy and served as secretary to about ten (10) Nigerian Economic Missions abroad between 1986–1991, He was appointed the Nigerian consul, as the special assistant (special duties) in the Nigerian Presidential Villa (2005–2006), was concurrently named honorary adviser and peace envoy to the President on Niger Delta (2006–2007), In Cameroon, he played a key role in the Bakassi Peninsular peace effort following border dispute between Nigeria and Cameroon and the subsequent International Court of Justice judgement of 2002.

CHIEF PROF. ROSE EZONBODOR-AKWAGBE, COUNCIL MEMBER, PROFESSOR OF NURSING, NDU.

Member of the Bayelsa Medical University Governing Council. Doctorate Degree in Health Education with Specialization in AIDS Health Education, University of Ibadan. Coordinator, United States Presidential Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR, Niger Delta University Chapter, and in December, 2009, Visiting Professor, Department of Nursing, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State. Dean faculty of Nursing, NDU.

The first female to be appointed Associate Professor with the Education Lecturing Services, UK, the first female Senior Lecturer in the Faculty of Nursing, Niger Delta University, the first Female Coordinator to be appointed by the United State Presidential Emergency Plan for AIDS  Relief(PEPFAR) Niger Delta University’s Chapter, the first female Dean of the only Faculty of Nursing in Nigeria as a whole, the first Bayelsan to be appointed Professor of Nursing by the Northwestern University, Florida, USA.

DR. AZIBA-ALOAGUO SEIBOFA, DOCTOR OF VETERINARY MEDICINE.

Appointed Pioneer Director General Ministry Of Agriculture And Natural Resources Bayelsa State, Member Bayelsa/Rivers States Assets/Liabilities Sharing Committee, appointed Permanent Secretary Into Bayelsa State Civil Service In 2003 And Retired In November 2006, Member Visitation Panel To Federal Polytechnic Nekede Imo State 2012, Member Bayelsa State Scholarship Board 2012-2016, Member Pioneer Governing Council Bayelsa State Polytechnic, Member Pioneer Governing Council Bayelsa State Medical University March 2019 To Date, Member Institute Of Corporate Administration (MCAI), Fellow Institute Of Sales Management (FNISM), Member Nigeria Veterinary Medical Association, Member Nigeria Red Cross Society.

PROFESSOR TARILA TEBEPAH, A PROFESSOR OF OPHTHALMOLOGY COUNCIL MEMBER.  

Member of Council BMU, former Chairman NDDC, former Trustee TETFUND, former State Secretary PDP, former Bayelsa state Commissioner of Health.

MR. ENIEKEZIMENE DANIEL ESETEBOFA (FCNA, FCE, FCTI), PERMANENT SECRETARY, MINISTRY OF FINANCE, Council Member.

Rivers State University of Science and Technology 1995-2000, PGD and MBA; University of Port Harcourt 2010 -2014, MSc; University of Port Harcourt, 2016-2021, PhD.

Served with the Rivers State Ministry of Finance, Department of Internal Revenue, served with the State Treasury Department, still in Ministry of Finance as Principal accountant. Serving in different Ministries, Department and Agencies as head and director of Finance and Accounts.

In 2016, he was appointed the Accountant General of the State, a position I held for three years, until 2019 when he was appointed Permanent Secretary Ministry of Finance. He serves in various Committees and.

PROF. EBITIMITULA NICHOLAS ETEBU, PROFESSOR OF PATHOLOGY, VICE-CHANCELLOR, COUNCIL MEMBER.

Former Medical Director, Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Yenagoa., A Professor of Pathology, former Commissioner for Health, Ministry of Health, Bayelsa State, Member, Nigerian Medical Association – NMA, – MDCAN. Nigeria – ASSOPON, – SMARS, a man who Pioneered the health insurance system in Bayelsa State, the Pioneer Vice-Chancellor Bayelsa Medical University.

Member, Nigerian Medical Association – NMA.

Member, Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria – MDCAN.

Member, Association of Pathologists of Nigeria – ASSOPON.

 Member, Sports Medicine Association of Nigeria – SMARS

 Member, Badminton Association of Nigeria.

 Pioneer the health insurance system in Bayelsa State.

 He has over 45 Academic Publications in local and international journals.

PROF. PAINGHA JOE ALAGOA, DVC, PROFESSOR OF SURGERY, COUNCIL MEMBER

A Professor of Surgery.  He is a fellow of the National Postgraduate Medical College and the International College of Surgeons, He has a passion for Breast and Gastrointestinal Surgery, He is a member of several Professional bodies including the International College of Surgeons in which he serves as a member of Council (Nigerian Section). He is an editor of the Niger Delta Medical Journal.

DR. GUAGHA MICKY BEREZI, REGISTRAR/SECRETARY TO COUNCIL.

Doctor of Philosophy (University Governance), University of Bristol, Bristol, UK – 2008, Master of Education (Higher Education Management and Planning), University of Port Harcourt, Port Harcourt, Nigeria – 1987. Guagha Micky Berezi is a Higher Education Administrator with 30 years cognate experience in the sector and having worked across four higher education institutions. he held several positions within the administrative structure of the institutions such as Admissions Officer, Governing Council Officer, Senate/Academic Board Officer, Students Examinations and Records Officer, Faculty Officer, University Advancement and Linkages Officer, Pensions Officer, Entrepreneurship Development Officer, Executive Assistant to Vice Chancellor and  currently the Registrar of Bayelsa Medical University, Yenagoa. He assisted the Bayelsa State Government in establishing the Niger Delta University in 2001, the Bayelsa State College of Education (now Isaac Jasper Boro College of Education) in 2010 and Bayelsa Medical University in 2018.

Fellow, Chartered Institute of Administration in Nigeria (FCIA) 2015, Fellow, Institute of Certified Public Administrators of England and Wales (FCPA), 2013, Fellow, Institute of Corporate Administration of Nigeria (FCAI), 2012, Member, Society for Corporate Governance Nigeria (SCGN), 2015, Member, Society for Research into Higher Education (SRHE), United Kingdom, 2004, Member, Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM), 2010, Member, Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN), 2011, Member, Association of Nigerian Universities Professional Administrators (ANUPA), Nigeria, 2000.

PROFESSOR OLUGBENRO JOSHUA BENEDICTUS OSINOWO, COUNCIL MEMBER

A trained as a Cardiothoracic Surgeon at various UK hospitals ending up as a Senior Registrar at the University Hospitals of Wales, Cardiff., He was a member of an all Nigerian team to perform the first open-heart surgery at the UCH, Ibadan In 1978, He was promoted to the grade of Professor of Surgery in 1989 at the University Ibadan, Professor Osinowo was a recipient of the Commonwealth Postgraduate Scholarship (1983-84), a Research Fellow at the London University Postgraduate Medical School (1986-87), Professor Osinowo is widely published, He speaks English, Yoruba, German, Arabic and French. Professor Osinowo is a devout Catholic and a Knight of the Order of Saint Mulumba.

DR. STEVEN T. OLALI, CHAPLIN, BAYELSA MEDICAL UNIVERSITY.

Doctor of philosophy history, a historian and Bayelsa State, writer, Chief Archivist Bayelsa State, Chaplin, Bayelsa Medical University.

 MR. GEOFFREY ALAGBA, PRINCIPAL OFFICER, BURSAR

Chartered Accountant of (ANAN) at the Nigerian College of Accountancy, Jos. He is a Chartered System Accountant (USA), He worked for the Budget and Control Department, Ministry of Finance, worked as a Reconciliation Officers at the Office of the Accountant General, He is a member of several professional Associations ACSA (USA), (ANAN), (ICPAN), (ABNU), (SIFMIS), (ABIT), He is the Substantive Pioneer Bursar of Bayelsa Medical University (BMU), Member of the prestigious NIIA

Dr. VICTOR IDIEDO, PRINCIPAL OFFICER, UNIVERSITY LIBRARIAN.

 He is a Lawyer and a Librarian, BSc. in Library and Information Science, MSc. in Library and Information Science, PhD in Library and Information science, LLB degree in Law, Attended the Nigerian Law School Kano for my BL degree, I was called to Bar 2015, Being the only Lawyer Librarian in Bayelsa State, he was appointed Librarian of the Bayelsa Medical University.

DR. MARIE THERESE TEIBOWEI (FICA, MNIIA), PRO/AG. DIR IFL-BT.

She has a Ph.D in French and International Studies from the Rivers State University of Education, Ignatius Ajuru. She is a media expert with over 15 years’ experience in the media industry.  She has a Master’s Degree in Translation and Interpretation and a BSc. Double Honours Degree in Journalism and Mass Communications/ Gender Studies. Currently she is the Public Relations Officer of the Bayelsa Medical University, and Acting Director of Institute of Foreign Languages & Biomedical Translations (IFL-BT).

PRINCE DIETTE-SPIFF, CHIEF SECURITY OFFICER, BMU.

Prince Phillip D. Diete-Spiff is an Intelligence Specialist and Counter Terrorism Expert.

He is among the first set of Nigerians to obtain a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) degree in Intelligence and Security Studies globally. His areas of specialization include Campus Security Policy, Policing and Crime Management, Critical Infrastructure Protection, Crisis and Emergency Planning, Security Strategy Development, amongst others.

Prince Diete-Spiff was Head of Intelligence Unit in the Federal University Otuoke,

as well as Supervisor to Desk Officers for Trade Unions (ASUU, SSANU, NASU, and NAAT) in the same institution.

COMMUNITY HEALTH PRACTITIONERS REGISTRATION BOARD OF NIGERIA(CHPRBN) EMBARKS ON AN ADVISORY AND RESOURCE VERIFICATION VISIT TO THE BAYELSA MEDICAL UNIVERSITY (BMU)-. TUESDAY, 20^H APRIL 2021.

Members of the Community Health Practitioners Board of Nigeria(CHPRBN) were in Bayelsa State to pay a resource verification/ advisory visit with the view of assessing existing facilities of the Bayelsa Medical University and providing necessary advice and guidance in view of preparation for accreditation by the Nigerian University Commission (NUC).

The team from the CHPRBN was led by Mr. Sule Galadima Toma, Chairman of the Board Chairman. Others members of the delegation include Mr. Adewumi Olabisi Damiyu, Board Member representing South West Zone and Mr. Fajuko, Head of Education Standards and Procedures.

In his welcome address the Vice Chancellor of BMU, Prof. Ebitimitula. N. Etebu on behalf of Council, Management and Staff of the University noted that this visit will add to the value of the University especially to the Faculty of Health Sciences. He acknowledged the role the BMU has played since its inception in 2018 by Law of the Bayelsa State State House of Assembly and approved by the NUC in January 2019 as a specialized University to offer programmes such as Medicine and Surgery, Optometry,  Pharmaceutical Sciences,  Nursing Sciences, Community Health, Public Health, Human Anatomy, Human Physiology,  Biochemistry,  Medical Laboratory Science,  Human Nutrition and Dietetics,  Dentistry and Dental Surgery, Physiotherapy, Radiography, Microbiology, Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Statistics, Physics with Electronics, and other medically related Programmes. Professor Etebu stated that despite the challenges faced by the University, the leadership of the University was focused and  determined to achieve the goals for which it was established.

On his part, the leader of the CHPBN delegation Mr. Sule Galadima expressed delight to be in Bayelsa State which he described as a Special State. He went on to congratulate His Excellency, Senator Douye Diri, Governor of Bayelsa State for the wisdom of consolidating on the foundation laid by his predecessor. He said he was impressed by the profiles of the high caliber of professionals appointed to manage BMU adding that with such impressive and experienced leaders, BMU was destined for greatness. Mr. Galadima added that their visit would further add value to BMU by contribute to the continuous success of the University.

In a PowerPoint presentation, Dr. Fajugo, member of the CHPRBN noted that from inception till date, the Board has produced 214, 633 Community Health Practitioners. He further stated that the mandate of the Board is “to be a regulatory agency with a clear focus on production of relevant Human Resources for efficient Primary Health Care Services in Nigeria.

He reeled out the functions of the board as:

• To determine what standards of knowledge and skills shall be attained by a person seeking to become a professional in the Health Sector and to improve those standards from time to time.
• To establish and maintain a register of persons registered under the Act as members of the profession and the publication from time to time.
• Conducting examinations in Health Records Management and awarding certificates or diplomas to successful candidates as appropriate and for such purpose, the board shall prescribe fees to be paid in respect.
• The accreditation of schools and courses.
• The Regulation of the profession and maintenance of discipline among members of the profession.

The CHPRBN Team was led on a tour of BMU facilities and the Community Health Centres in the State. After the tour, the team reconvened for a debriefing to BMU Management. While debriefing Management, members of the CHPRBN said they were pleased with the level of preparation of the BMU and its achievements so far, however there was room for  improvement especially in the provision of additional infrastructure for Faculties and Centres and Institutes of the University. They pointed out the need for necessary documentation and additional personnel where there was need. The CHPRBN resource verification/ advisory visit ended with a scheduled appointment for a  visit to His Excellency the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Laurence Ewrudjakpo  for  Breakfast meeting on Saturday, April 24 2021 by 9 am.

Others in attendance were the Deputy Vice chancellor, Professor Paingha J. Alagoa, the Registrar, Dr. Guagha Berezi, the University Librarian, Dr. Idiedo Victor, the Director Academic Planning, Research and Innovation, Professor. Olugbenro Joshua Benedictus Osinowo, the Dean Faculty of Health Sciences, Dr. Doris Dotimi, the Head of Department Public Health, Dr. Mrs. Ekemike Dolphina Olaitari and the PRO/ Ag. Director IFL-BT, Dr. Marie Teibowei.

HIS EXCELLENCY SENATOR DOUYE DIRI, EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR OF BAYELSA STATE AND VISITOR TO THE BAYELSA MEDICAL UNIVERSITY (BMU), HAS PLEDGED TO  CONSTRUCT A BEFITTING SENATE BUILDING FOR THE UNIVERSITY  AS HE EMBARKED ON HIS FIRST WORKING VISIT AS VISITOR, ACCOMPANIED BY  THE HONOURABLE COMMISSIONERS FOR EDUCATION  AND HEALTH IN BAYELSA STATE.

THE GOVERNOR WAS RECEIVED BY EMERITUS PROFESSOR NIMI BRIGGS (OON), PRO CHANCELLOR/CHAIRMAN OF COUNCIL, THE VICE CHANCELLOR AND MANAGEMENT OF THE BAYELSA MEDICAL UNIVERSITY -TUESDAY, 12th JANUARY, 2021.

HIS EXCELLENCY SEN. DOUYE DIRI IN A TÊTE-À-TÊTE WITH EMERITUS PROF. NIMI BRIGGS

The pronouncement was made at the Council Chambers of the University by His Excellency the Governor during his inaugural working visit as Visitor to the University. The Governor who had in his entourage, the Commissioner for Education, the Commissioner for Health and top Government functionaries was received by Emeritus Professor Nimi Briggs, Pro Chancellor and Chairman of Council of the Bayelsa Medical University, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Ebitimitula N. Etebu as well as Management of the University.

The “Miracle Governor “ as he is fondly called, who is a seasoned administrator, a professional to the core, an education-friendly Governor and a former teacher visited BMU with a view to evaluate the progress made so far and clearly understand the challenges of the University and provide Government support to them.
On arrival, the Governor was welcomed by Emeritus Professor Nimi Dimkpa Briggs (OON), a Nigerian academic, scholar and Emeritus Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology who has served in various capacities as Vice-Chancellor of University of Port Harcourt twice, Chairman Committee of Vice Chancellors of Nigerian Universities and Chairman of the Board of the National Hospital. Chairman of the Rivers State Economic Advisory Council and the Rivers State Community Foundation and many other portfolios as Pro Chancellor of two Federal Universities and one State University in Nigeria.

In the opening remark  the Pro Chancellor thanked the Governor for the visit and congratulated him on his numerous court victories which gave rise to the appellation  “Miracle Governor”. He equally thanked the former Governor of Bayelsa State Senator Henry Seriake Dickson for appointing a Governing Council for the Bayelsa Medical University and reassured Governor Douye Diri that the Governing Council will do its duties in accordance with the laid down laws of the institution. He further assured that the Council will be respectful and loyal to the Government and people of Bayelsa State. Emeritus Professor Nimi Briggs described Governor Diri as a man who, right before the time he was sworn-in as the Governor of Bayelsa State,  has excelled in both the Green and Red Chambers, in administration, business, as a Commissioner, as an academician and today  in his capacity as Governor and Visitor to the Bayelsa Medical University.

On his part, the Vice Chancellor, Prof Ebitimitula Etebu, while giving a stewardship of his tenure so far stated that the Bayelsa Medical University started operations in October 2018 and opened its doors to the first set of students in April 2019. According to the Vice Chancellor, In July 2019, the National Universities Commission undertook a resource verification exercise of the university after which it approved Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, Anatomy, Statistics, Physiology, Biochemistry and Microbiology as programmes for the University. He added that the University currently runs seven Faculties-Science, Basic Medical Sciences, Clinical Sciences, Health Sciences, Dental Sciences, Faculty of Basic Clinical Science and Pharmaceutical Sciences.

Professor Etebu added that it is the desire of BMU to introduce the Faculty of Biomedical Engineering and Technology to groom expertise in the manufacturing and maintenance of medical equipment. He pleaded with the Government to intervene urgently for the completion  of the University Teaching Hospital, the Commissioning of the Mother and Child Referral Hospital, the Reopening of the Bayelsa Diagnostic Centre, the Completion of the Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences and Laboratories, the Building of the Faculty of Basic Clinical Sciences, Building of a standard library , the building of an Animal House, the building of a Centre for Entrepreneurship and General Studies, the building of an Institute of Foreign Languages And Biomedical Translations and the provision of an adequate monthly subvention  among other needs adding that this will help BMU to achieve its full potential of accreditation with NUC and other regulatory bodies.

The Vice Chancellor requested the official handing over of all existing Centres within the premises of the University such as the Bayelsa Diagnostic Centre, the Malaria Tuberculosis and Aids Centre, the Mother and Child Hospital and the Molecular Laboratory to the Governing Council  as it will advance the chances of securing accreditation for all its Medical Programmes .

Responding, His Excellency Senator Douye Diri expressed his gratitude to the Governing Council and Management of the University for taking proper care of the University, a place of history which was first established as a General Hospital by the Government of late Governor Diepreye Alamieyeseigha and was later transformed to the Bayelsa Medical University by Senator Henry Seriake Dickson. He harped on the need to appreciate former Governors who have contributed their quota to the growth of Bayelsa State, adding that his government will continue to build on the growth and sustenance of such noble projects.

The Governor also extolled the virtues of the Pro Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Emeritus professor Nimi Briggs who he revealed was the Vice Chancellor of his Alma Mata (University of Port Harcourt). He stated that the presence of the Pro-Chancellor can only impact positively on the growth of BMU, Bayelsa State and Nigeria in general.

On the request for urgent intervention, the Governor promised to look into the request noting that education is his Government’s priority and cautioned that failure to encourage education will result in building large prison walls. He directed the Ministry of Education and Health to work with the Management of the University to achieve results.

The Governor was taken on a facility tour to the Bayelsa State Diagnostic Centre, the Administrative Offices such as Audit Unit, Procurement Unit, Legal Unit, Student Affairs Department, Admissions Office, the Auditorium, the Cafeteria, the 500 Bed Hospital (the theatre, the wards, the A and E, Biology, Microbiology, Chemistry and Physics laboratories, the University Library and the Institute of Foreign Languages and Bio-Medical Translations) and other facilities.

On the governor’s entourage were top Government functionaries such as Rt. Hon. Benson Friday Konbowei, Secretary to State Government, Chief Benson S. Agadaga, Chief of Staff, Hon. Dr. Oyinke Godbless N. Chairman House Committee on Health, Honourable. Ayiba C. Duba Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Honourable Gentle E. Emelah, Commissioner for Education, Honourable Igwelle Pabara , Commissioner for Health, Honourable (Mrs) Victoria Denenu, Chairman Bayelsa Primary Health Commission, among others.

The Pro Chancellor’s entourage was composed of Professor Ebitimitula N. Etebu, Vice Chancellor, Professor Paingha Joe Alagoa, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Dr. Akpoebi Adesi, Registrar, Dr. Victor Idiedo, Librarian, Mr. Geoffrey Alagba, Bursar, Professor Olu Osinowo, Director Academic Planning, Dr. Godwin Ziriki, Director school of Foundation Studies, Dr. Guagha Berezi, Executive Assistant to the Vice Chancellor, Prince Diette Spiff, Chief Security Officer as well as other Professors, Deans and Heads of Departments.