As part of ways to foster development across several key sectors, the Bayelsa State Government has entered into a wide-ranging bilateral agreement with the City of Brampton in Toronto, Canada, to drive development across multiple sectors of mutual interest.
The 10-point pact covers cooperation in education, environmental management, economic development, trade, commerce and investment. It also spans innovation, urban management, agriculture, administrative development, staff training, citizenship engagement, community relations, energy, culture, tourism and sports.
Bayelsa’s Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Biriyai Dambo (SAN), signed the agreement on behalf of the state, while Brampton’s Director of Economic Development, Denise McClure, signed for the city. The ceremony was witnessed by Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, and the Mayor of Brampton, Patrick Brown.
The signing took place during the three-day Bayelsa–Brampton Trade and Investment Forum held at Brampton City Hall.
In his remarks, Mayor Brown welcomed the delegation, and praised Nigeria’s progress in technology, economic development, innovation, and Nollywood, and expressed optimism about deeper collaborations in agro-processing, entertainment, innovation, sports, and medical technology. “We are very serious about engaging with Nigeria.
“As one of Canada’s fastest-growing cities, we want to be part of the opportunities ahead. There is no better time to build this relationship.”
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Responding, Diri emphasized Bayelsa’s readiness for robust collaboration, highlighting the state’s rich gas and oil reserves and its potential in agriculture and ICT development.
He noted Brampton’s strengths in agro-processing, innovation, and healthcare, and identified them as areas for partnership.
“Bayelsa is open for investment. Through this relationship, we can develop our oil palm estate, strengthen agro-processing, and establish industries that will benefit both sides.”
Diri directed the Bayelsa Investment Promotion Agency (BIPA) to work closely with Brampton officials to finalize the partnership details. He also extended an invitation to Mayor Brown to visit Bayelsa.
