By Chido Nwakanma
Today, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa West marks a significant personal milestone – his 60th birthday.
We extend our warmest congratulations to him on entering his Diamond Jubilee year.
Yet, for the distinguished Senator, this day is also touched by profound sorrow. As Bayelsa State prepares to lay to rest his close friend and political protégé, the late Deputy Governor His Excellency Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, Ph.D., the celebration is rightly tempered by reflection. The passing of his contemporary and ally, who also departed at the age of 60, underscores a poignant truth: life’s highest joys and deepest griefs are often interwoven.
Thus, while we acknowledge this landmark birthday, we do so with solemn respect for the loss he endures. The bond they shared—as friends and political allies—adds a layer of profound depth to this moment.
Senator Dickson’s journey to this point is a testament to a lifetime of formidable service. His career is a tapestry of leadership woven across multiple spheres:
* As a Legal Professional: He has served on the Council of Legal Education, the Body of Attorneys-General of Nigeria, and is a member of both the Nigerian and International Bar Associations.
* As a Security and Justice Architect: His tenure included membership on the Bayelsa State Security Council and the Vice-Chairmanship of the State Judicial Service Commission.
* As a Legislator: Representing the Sagbama/Ekeremor Federal Constituency, he chaired the House Committee on Justice and contributed to numerous other committees.
* As an Executive: He served Bayelsa State as its Governor for two terms, a historic eight-year tenure.
* As a Global Professional: His memberships extend to the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (UK) Nigerian Chapter and the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria, among others.
Senator Dickson stands as an astute politician, a dedicated lawyer, and truly, a man of his people.
So, as we welcome His Excellency to his Diamond Age—a decade that should gleam with the wisdom of experience—we do so with wishes for strength and solace in this time of loss. May the years ahead be filled with continued purpose and grace.
Happy 60th birthday, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson.
