Diri Pays Tribute To Prof. Turner Isoun, Describes Him As A National Hero

Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former Minister of Science and Technology, Professor Turner Timinepre Isoun, describing him as an exceptional scholar, visionary leader and one of Nigeria’s greatest contributors to science, technology and national development.

Hotnews reports that Governor Diri, in a statement issued on Friday by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Daniel Alabrah, said the late Professor of Veterinary Medicine left behind an enduring legacy that would continue to inspire generations of Nigerians, particularly young scholars, scientists and public servants.

The Governor described Professor Isoun as an academic giant whose remarkable contributions to scholarship, technological advancement and public service were outstanding and immeasurable, noting that his passing was a monumental loss to Nigeria, Bayelsa State and the entire Ijaw nation.

According to Governor Diri, the late elder statesman distinguished himself through excellence, innovation and visionary leadership, earning national and international recognition for his pioneering efforts in advancing science and technology in Nigeria.

Reflecting on the late professor’s illustrious career, the Governor recalled his pioneering role as the first Vice Chancellor of the then University of Science and Technology, now Rivers State University, Port Harcourt, where he laid a solid academic and administrative foundation that transformed the institution into one of Nigeria’s foremost universities.

Governor Diri noted that beyond academia, Professor Isoun made indelible contributions as Minister of Science and Technology under the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo between 2000 and 2007.

He said it was during Isoun’s tenure that Nigeria witnessed a remarkable transformation in the science and technology sector, particularly in information and communication technology as well as space science.

The Governor observed that the late minister championed policies and programmes that ushered in Nigeria’s ICT revolution, positioning the country on the global digital map.

He highlighted Professor Isoun’s instrumental role in the establishment of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), which has remained at the forefront of driving Nigeria’s digital economy and technological innovation.

Governor Diri also acknowledged the late statesman’s pivotal contribution to the creation of Galaxy Backbone Plc, the federal government’s ICT infrastructure company responsible for harmonising communication networks and strengthening Nigeria’s broadband infrastructure.

He further praised the deceased for providing the leadership that culminated in Nigeria’s major breakthroughs in space technology, including the successful launch of the country’s first satellites, NigeriaSat-1 and NigComSat-1R, achievements that significantly enhanced Nigeria’s standing among technologically advanced nations.

The Bayelsa Governor equally paid tribute to Professor Isoun’s unwavering commitment to the Ijaw nation and the development of Bayelsa State, noting that he was a respected cultural icon and elder statesman whose wise counsel, candour and dedication to the promotion of Ijaw socio-cultural values earned him widespread admiration.

Governor Diri recalled that the Odi-born scholar served as Chairman of the Central Zone of the Ijaw National Congress (INC) and played a significant role in the historic struggle that led to the creation of Bayelsa State from the old Rivers State in 1996.

According to him, Professor Isoun remained throughout his lifetime a passionate advocate for justice, equity, education and sustainable development, using his intellect and influence to advance the cause of both his people and the nation.

The Governor said the deceased’s life exemplified patriotism, integrity and selfless service, adding that his legacy would continue to resonate across the academic community, government institutions and among all those who benefitted from his visionary leadership.

Governor Diri extended the heartfelt condolences of the government and people of Bayelsa State to the Isoun family, the people of Odi community, friends, associates and the entire Ijaw nation over the painful loss.

He urged them to find comfort in the remarkable accomplishments and enduring legacy of the late elder statesman, whose contributions to education, science, technology and national development have secured him a permanent place in Nigeria’s history.

The Governor prayed that God would grant the family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss and give the departed academic icon eternal rest.

~ Hot News Reporters
Thursday, 23, July, 2026