Bayelsa @30: We’Ve Made So Much Progress, But Much Remains To Be Done – Gov. Diri

Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has paid tribute to the founding fathers of the state, saying Bayelsa has recorded significant progress since its creation on October 1, 1996.

Hotnews reports that Governor Diri, who spoke in a live broadcast to mark Bayelsa’s 30th anniversary and Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary, said the occasion was an opportunity to honour those who fought and sacrificed for the creation of the state and to reflect on the legacy being built by the present generation.

He recalled that the struggle for Bayelsa’s creation was rooted in decades of advocacy, protests, petitions, prayers and sacrifices by generations of Ijaw people seeking recognition, justice and a stronger voice in the Nigerian federation.

The Governor acknowledged the contributions of several prominent figures, including Major Isaac Boro, Chief Harold Dappa-Biriye, Chief Melford Okilo, Pa Ernest Ikoli, Chief Diepreye Alamieyeseigha and other heroes of the state’s political history.

Governor Diri said Bayelsa inherited major challenges at creation, including difficult terrain, poor connectivity, inadequate infrastructure and a fragile economic base.

He, however, noted that the state had witnessed considerable transformation through successive administrations, particularly in roads, bridges, education, healthcare, power and federal presence.

He said his administration was consolidating on the foundations laid by previous governments while prioritising projects capable of delivering broad benefits to the people.

The Governor identified road infrastructure, electricity and employment opportunities as key priorities, noting that the state’s Independent Power Project was being expanded from 60MW to 100MW, while major road projects and the nine-storey secretariat complex were also progressing.

Governor Diri also highlighted the economic and social benefits of improved road connectivity, particularly the connection of previously isolated local government headquarters to Yenagoa.

He said the construction of the 630-metre bridge across the River Nun to Oporoma demonstrated that projects once considered impossible could be achieved with determination.

On employment, the Governor said his administration was exploring aquaculture, agriculture and the blue economy, while skills such as underwater welding would be introduced into technical and higher institutions to prepare young people for emerging opportunities.

Governor Diri urged Bayelsans, particularly youths, to acquire relevant skills and embrace opportunities beyond traditional white-collar employment.

He also assured residents that electricity supply would reach more communities as the distribution network improves, while urging consumers to be prepared to pay for electricity consumed.

The state helmsman said the 30th anniversary should not only be a moment to celebrate past achievements but also an opportunity to renew commitment to building a more prosperous and developed Bayelsa.

“Much has been achieved, and much remains unfinished,” Governor Diri said, stressing that the state’s roads must reach more communities, power supply must expand and young people must have opportunities to work, build and prosper.

~ Hot News Reporters
Saturday 3rd, October, 2026