Bagou Commends Diri, Akpe For Bayelsa @30 Celebration

A Bayelsa-based Journalist and Public Commentator, Mr Preye Bagou, has extended profound appreciation to the Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, and his Deputy, Dr. Peter Akpe, for the colourful, entertaining and engaging activities organised to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the creation of Bayelsa State.

Mr Bagou in a statement issued on Sunday, described the anniversary celebration as a significant milestone in the history of the state, noting that the various programmes provided Bayelsans with an opportunity not only to celebrate three decades of statehood but also to reflect on the journey, sacrifices, achievements and aspirations that have shaped Bayelsa since its creation on October 1, 1996.

The anniversary programme, unveiled by the state government, featured a wide range of activities, including an Ijaw language awareness programme, sporting events, cultural displays, a road float, boat regatta, musical concert, anniversary lecture, praise event, media engagement, children’s activities, and an anniversary dinner and awards ceremony.

Mr Bagou particularly commended the Governor, Senator Douye Diri and the Deputy Governor, Dr. Peter Akpe for ensuring that the celebration was not limited to official ceremonies but also incorporated cultural, sporting, entertainment and social activities that enabled citizens from different backgrounds to participate in the anniversary.

He said the cultural float and boat regatta were especially significant because, they showcased the rich cultural heritage of Bayelsa State, and provided an avenue for the various local government areas to display their unique traditions and cultural identities across Bayelsa State.

According to him, the musical concert and other entertainment activities also brought a festive atmosphere to the celebration, while the sporting activities created an opportunity for government officials, athletes and residents to participate in healthy recreational activities.

The journalist described the 30th anniversary as a moment that brought together Bayelsans, government officials, traditional institutions, political leaders, professionals, women, youths, elders and other stakeholders in a shared celebration of the state’s identity and history.

He also commended the decision to recognise individuals who have contributed to the development of Bayelsa State through the anniversary dinner and award ceremony, which attracted prominent personalities, including former President Goodluck Jonathan, members of the Abacha family and other dignitaries.

According to Mr Bagou, recognising the contributions of founding fathers, past leaders and other stakeholders is important because the growth and development of the State, is a collective responsibility built by several administrations and generations.

He noted that the anniversary also provided an opportunity to celebrate the sacrifices of the people who advocated for the creation of Bayelsa State, and the subsequent efforts of successive administrations to build institutions, infrastructure and opportunities for the people.

Mr Bagou further expressed profound appreciation to Governor Diri and Deputy Governor Akpe for providing a platform through which Bayelsans could celebrate their heritage with pride, while also reflecting on the responsibilities associated with the next phase of the state’s development.

He congratulated Governor Douye Diri, Deputy Governor Peter Akpe, the anniversary planning committee, government officials, traditional rulers, cultural groups, entertainers, athletes, media practitioners and all Bayelsans who contributed to the success of the celebration of the state’s creation.

Mr Bagou also congratulated the people of Bayelsa State for attaining three decades of statehood, describing the milestone as an opportunity for collective thanksgiving, reflection and renewed commitment to the ideals upon which the state was founded.

He called on Bayelsans to preserve the state’s rich cultural heritage, and promote peace and unity to continue to contribute positively to the growth and development of the State, as Bayelsa State begins another chapter after 30 years of statehood by late Abacha.