September 28, (THEWILL) — Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has said his administration is recording steady and impactful progress in the state’s development and remains determined to break new grounds despite daunting challenges.
Diri, represented by his deputy, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, spoke on Sunday at an interdenominational church service to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary and the 29th anniversary of Bayelsa State’s creation, held at the King of Glory Chapel, Government House, Yenagoa.
The governor acknowledged that the state’s growth has been modest, but assured that his government would continue to do more within available resources.
He noted that Bayelsa, with only eight local government areas, is disadvantaged in resource allocation from the federal government, yet his administration, under the “Prosperity Government” agenda, has continued to press forward in transforming the state’s socioeconomic fortunes.
Diri cited the December target for 24-hour power supply in the state as a demonstration of his government’s commitment to sustainable development.
He confirmed the arrival of a 60-megawatt gas turbine, which, when operational, would boost electricity supply, attract investors, and open new opportunities.
He said, “For us in Bayelsa State, our development has been modest, but we are progressing within the limits of our resources.
“Despite the odds, we have acquired a 60-megawatt gas turbine that will give Bayelsa 24-hour power supply by December. That is progress because once there is light, there is hope. More investors will come in, and though we may not be where we ought to be, we are not where we used to be.”
On Nigeria’s democracy at 65, the governor stressed that for the system to make meaningful impact, it must respect the rule of law and uphold citizens’ rights.
In his sermon, titled “Challenges of Our Settlement,” General Stephen Odede said growth is always God’s plan at the birth of anything, but challenges often hinder progress.
He described Bayelsa as a great state destined to triumph over its adversities.
Dignitaries at the service included the immediate past deputy governor, Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John-Jonah (Rtd); Speaker of the State House of Assembly, represented by Col Bernard Kenebai (Rtd); Hon. Tare Porri (Ekeremor Constituency 1); Hon. Werinipre Waripamo (Kolokuma/Opokuma Constituency 1); Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Nimibofa Ayawei; top government functionaries; service commanders; and clergymen.
The service featured intercessory prayers for Bayelsa, the Niger Delta, and Nigeria.
Amos Okioma is a Correspondent at THEWILL
