As Bayelsa State clocks 29 years of its creation, Governor Douye Diri has described the commissioning of a 60-megawatt gas turbine as a landmark stride that will define the state’s future. In a statewide broadcast delivered to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary alongside Bayelsa’s own statehood celebration, the governor said the power project stands as one of the boldest moves yet in tackling perennial electricity challenges in the region. According to him, the arrival of the new gas turbine signals a shift toward a consistent power supply, reducing household expenses and unlocking investment opportunities. He emphasized that the project would not only generate jobs but also strengthen the state’s economic base.
Governor Diri pointed out that the power initiative sits alongside other strategic developments aimed at transforming Bayelsa. He cited the ongoing construction of a nine-storey State Secretariat, describing it as a modern workspace designed to enhance efficiency for public servants. In addition, he noted progress on the Olympic-standard stadium with a 25,000-capacity facility, a facility he said would ignite youth interest in sports, provide international exposure, and place Bayelsa firmly on the sports map.
On education, the governor expressed pride in the strides made by students and schools across the state. He recalled the strong performance of Bayelsa candidates in the recent NECO examinations, placing the state among Nigeria’s top five. He also highlighted the establishment of science, technical, and vocational colleges in all local government areas as part of efforts to anchor education in practical skills. Completed projects in Ayamasa, Ofoni, Swali, Sampou, and Opume have already commenced operations, while institutions in Brass, Igbeta-Ewoma, and Oporoma are nearing completion. Diri said these efforts underline the administration’s commitment to ensuring young Bayelsans are better equipped for the future.
The governor reflected on Bayelsa’s journey since its creation, stressing that despite challenges, the state has remained true to the ideals of self-determination. He acknowledged that progress had not always been smooth but insisted that the ability of Bayelsans to make their own decisions, chart their own course, and manage their own affairs was cause for gratitude and pride. For him, the anniversary goes beyond ceremony; it serves as a reminder of both responsibility and resilience.
Diri urged citizens to stay hopeful, noting that the collective effort of the people would determine how far the state would go in the coming years. He said Bayelsa’s narrative is improving and that its people have every reason to look forward with optimism.
The governor’s remarks framed the anniversary not only as a celebration of history but also as a recognition of the progress already made and the promise of greater achievements still ahead.
