Gov. Diri Directs Free Quarterly Medical Checkups For Bayelsans

Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has directed the Ministry of Health to commence free quarterly medical checkups for residents across the eight Local Government Areas of the state to improve access to healthcare, particularly for low-income earners.

Hotnews gathered that Governor Diri gave the directive on Sunday during a special thanksgiving service at Saint John’s Anglican Church, Olobiri, Kaiama, in Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area, in honour of the Ibedaowei of Kolokuma Kingdom, King Mozi Agara.

The Governor explained that the initiative would enable residents who cannot afford medical examinations to access free healthcare services at government secondary health facilities.

He directed the Ministry of Health to maintain a register of beneficiaries and monitor common health conditions, including hypertension, high blood sugar and cancer.

Governor Diri expressed concern over the increasing prevalence of cancer, stressing that his administration would not ignore the health challenges confronting the people.

He urged residents to take advantage of the initiative by visiting their nearest secondary health facilities, adding that the Commissioner for Health would announce further details.

The Governor also expressed gratitude to God for the recovery of the Kolokuma monarch from a recent health challenge.

He urged the people to respect and honour traditional rulers, describing them as custodians of peace and order who play important roles in resolving disputes and maintaining harmony in their communities.

He called for greater recognition of traditional rulers in governance, given their contributions to peaceful coexistence and community development.

During the visit, Governor Diri further directed the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure to present the rehabilitation of deplorable portions of the road from the Kaiama Bridge for approval.

He noted that he personally inspected projects across the state to obtain firsthand information on their condition and progress.

In his sermon titled “The Supremacy of God,” the Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Northern Izon, Rt. Rev. Funkuro Amgbare, emphasised God’s supreme authority. He attributed the monarch’s recovery to divine intervention and offered prayers for continued peace and progress in the community.

Dignitaries at the service included the Governor’s wife, Dr. Gloria Diri; Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Chief Fred Agbedi; members of the House of Representatives, Oboku Oforji and Rodney Ambaiowei; Bayelsa APC Chairman, Hon. Warman Ogoriba; Acting Chief of Staff, Government House, Irorodamie Komonibo; and other government officials.

~ Hot News Reporters
Tuesday 13, October, 2026