By Simon Utebor, Yenagoa

Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri has stressed the need for press freedom in the country, expressing delight over the development of the Nigerian media over the decades.

Diri spoke in Abuja during the House of Representatives Press Corps’ Annual Dinner and Award ceremonies, a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Daniel Alabrah, said on Tuesday.

The Governor said the importance of the free press in a democracy could not be over-emphasised as it plays a significant role in the development process.

He noted, however, that there was still room for improvement.

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He thanked the House of Reps Press Corps for his “Pride of the House of Representatives, Award,” saying it would spur him to do more.

Diri restated his belief in the unity of Nigeria built on the principles of justice and equity.

He called for a reconciliatory mode of governance to right the obvious wrongs that have polarised the country.

He said: “I am happy that my colleagues in the House still recognise our efforts. I am happy that they have their eagle eyes on me and our state and it would spur us to more actions.

“I was actually shocked when I saw the level of what we have done recorded by the House of Representatives Press Corps. That is why we always advocate for freedom of the press. There is nowhere there is absolute freedom but we must allow the press to be free and open.

“I believe that this is a great country. I believe in the unity of this country but the proviso is that there must always be justice and equity.”

Prior to becoming governor, Diri was a member of the House of Representatives between 2015 and 2019 and was in the Senate from June 2019 to February 13, 2020.