Henry Seriake Dickson
His Excellency
1968 – present
Henry Seriake Dickson was born on October 10, 1968, in Toru-Orua, Sagbama Local Government Area, Bayelsa State. He trained as a lawyer and entered politics as a member of the Nigerian House of Representatives, where he served before ascending to the governorship.
Dickson was elected Executive Governor of Bayelsa State in 2012 and re-elected in 2016, serving two full terms until 2020. His administration is remembered for ambitious urban renewal in Yenagoa, including the iconic Oxbow Lake Development, the construction of roads and bridges across Bayelsa's notoriously difficult terrain, and investments in the Glory of God International Airport.
He positioned himself as a "restorer" — a governor intent on transforming Bayelsa from a state seen as underdeveloped relative to its oil wealth into a modern, functional state capital. His administration also prioritised education and healthcare access in riverine communities.
Fondly referred to as "Findete" (a title of honour), Dickson remains active in Nigerian politics and is considered a significant voice in PDP national affairs and Niger Delta governance discussions.