March 31, (THEWILL) – Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has appointed renowned gospel musician, Asu Ekiye, as the Ijaw Language Ambassador in recognition of his efforts to promote and preserve the Ijaw language through music.
Diri made the announcement on Sunday in Yenagoa during Ekiye’s musical concert and album launch, tagged *Ebikamo Experience*. The governor stated that the appointment aligns with his administration’s commitment to safeguarding the Ijaw language from extinction.
Commending Ekiye’s dedication to preserving the language, Diri noted that his government had trained Ijaw teachers and would continue investing in initiatives to promote the language.
“Our administration is deliberate about preserving the Ijaw language. That is why we have been training Ijaw teachers and will do more to promote our language and culture,” he said.
The governor also emphasized the peaceful nature of the Ijaw people, attributing Bayelsa’s stability to their disposition. He called for continued support from residents to enable his administration to execute more developmental projects across the state.
“I am happy with your success story as an Ijaw gospel musician, and I hereby appoint you as Ambassador of Ijaw Language. My office will officially communicate this appointment to you,” Diri announced.
He urged parents to teach their children the Ijaw language, stressing the need for collective efforts in preserving the cultural heritage.
“My dear people of Bayelsa, our state is peaceful because the Ijaw people are peaceful. Let us support both the state and federal governments in ensuring sustained development,” he added.
Diri also reiterated Bayelsa’s significance to Nigeria’s economy, particularly in the marine and blue economy sectors.
“The way we have given Nigeria oil and gas, Bayelsa is also the cradle of the marine and blue economy. This is what Nigeria is missing in Bayelsa. We thank the federal government for creating the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy,” he said.
During the event, Ekiye thrilled the audience with electrifying performances that drew the governor to the dance floor.
Dignitaries present included the State Chief Judge, Justice Matilda Ayemieye, House of Assembly member for Yenagoa Constituency 1, Chief Ayibanegiyefa Egba, Chief of Staff, Government House, Dr. Peter Akpe, his deputy, Mr. Irorodamie Komonibo, and Ijaw music icons Barrister Smooth and Izonebi, among others.
Amos Okioma is a Correspondent at THEWILL
