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  • Organisers name Diri, others for Newstap/ SWAN 5-Star Award

    Organisers name Diri, others for Newstap/ SWAN 5-Star Award

    Organizers of the annual 5- Star Newstap Communication/ Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) award have announced winners of the second edition  of the prestigious  award instituted in  honouring eminent personalities who have made immense contributions to football and sports development in Nigeria  over the years.

    After a rigorous selection  process by a committee of respected members,  Governor of Bayelsa State Senator Douye Diri, The CEO/Director-General National Institute for Sports (NIS) , Comrade Philip Shaibu, CEO of Nilayo Sports, Mrs Yetunde Olopade (wife of Director-General National Sports Commission Hon. Bukola Olapade), internationally acclaimed boxing promoter Hon. Omonlei Yakubu Imadu and proprietor  of Grassroots football  club Ahudiya Nnem FC , Chief Robert Onyeani , were named winners of the award.

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    According to the Editor of Newstap Communication Ltd, Ifeanyi Eduzor, the Awardees were carefully chosen for their immense contributions to football and sports development over the years.

    He affirmed  that the ceremony will take place at the Blessing  Hall of Eko Club Surulere, Lagos on March 6th  by 5pm.The maiden edition of the Award  was chaired by the Chairman of National Sports Commission (NSC) Mallam Shehu Dikko.

    Eduzor said plans are in top gear to make this year’s event most memorable and colourful.

    The organizers have already named a three-man LOC headed by the Deputy Editor of New Telegraph Newspaper Adekunle Salami. Other members of the LOC are Editor of Sporting Vanguard Tony Ubani and John Joshua- Akanji, who was SA to former Sports Minister Chief Sunday Dare.

  • Sule, Diri, Okpebholo, Oyebanji sign N545.2b, N1.01tr, N415.57b, N939b 2026 budgets into law

    Sule, Diri, Okpebholo, Oyebanji sign N545.2b, N1.01tr, N415.57b, N939b 2026 budgets into law

    Governors Abdullahi Sule (Nasarawa), Duoye Diri (Bayelsa), Monday Okpebholo (Edo), and Biodun Oyebanji (Ekiti) yesterday signed the 2026 Appropriation Bills into law. 

    The Nasarawa State House of Assembly passed the 2026 Appropriation Bill of N545.2 billion into law.

    The state lawmakers had jacked up the proposed budget from N517.5 billion to N545.2 billion, indicating a N27.6 billion increase.

    Speaker Danladi Jatau announced the passage of the Bill into law during proceedings in Lafia, the state capital.

    “The Capital Expenditure is N316,265,270,661.07 billion and the Recurrent Expenditure is N228.717,880,249.07 billion,” he said. Jatau urged the executive to ensure full implementation of the budget.

    The Speaker explained that the N27.6 billion increment was due to the current surge of inflation.

    “In the upward review, security votes and services in the Office of the Secretary (SSG) to the State Government and Ministry of Special Duties, Security and Sundry Matters received additional N14 billion, while the Ministry of Local Government got additional N7 billion.

    “The Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism received a boost of N3.7 billion and the construction of the 55-kilometre Lafia-Kwandere-Garaku road, among others,” he added.

    READ ALSO: Street naming racket

    Majority Leader Suleiman Yakubu Azara moved the motion for the passage of the 2026 Appropriation Bill into law and Minority Leader Luka Iliya Zhekaba seconded the motion. The lawmakers unanimously passed the Appropriation Bill into law.

    In Bayelsa State, Governor Diri signed the state’s 2026 Appropriation Bill of N1.016 trillion into law alongside six other Bills.

    The other legislations are: the Rural Access Funds Law 2025, Rural Access Road Authority Law 2025, Water Sector Law 2025, Statistics Law 2025, Harmonised Taxes and Levies Approved List for Collection Law 2025 and the Bayelsa Medical University Amendment Law 2025.

    The governor said N998.371 billion was initially presented to the House of Assembly on November 13 for scrutiny and approval.

    He said after a careful perusal and consultation with the Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), the Assembly increased it by N17.7 billion, representing 1.77 per cent.

    Diri assured the people that his administration would ensure the full implementation of the 2026 budget, as he was able to keep to the budget cycle of January to December in the outgoing year.

    He thanked the lawmakers for the timely passage of the Bills, stressing that the cooperation among the three arms of government would enable them to continue to address the developmental challenges of the state.

    “Let us continue to keep this mutual understanding and relationship to foster sustainable growth and development of our state. But, of course, there must be checks and balances.

    “If there is any implementation that is not going on well, exercise your powers to ensure that this law is adhered to. On our part, we will try our best to ensure full implementation of this Appropriation Law 2026,” Diri told the lawmakers.

    Presenting the Bills, Speaker Abraham Ingobere said the “Budget of ASSURED Prosperity II” was more than just a piece of legislation but a symbol of appreciation for the strides the state had made in improving the lives of the residents through infrastructure development, healthcare, public utilities, education, and agriculture, among others.

    In Edo State, Governor Okpebholo said the “Budget of Hope and Growth” would take the state to greater heights.

    Last week, the governor presented the N939 billion Appropriation Bill to the House of Assembly for scrutiny and passage.

    The Assembly passed the budget into law after an interface with relevant commissioners and government agencies.

    Speaker Blessing Agbebaku noted that the governor has transformed the state, saying the people benefited from his practical governance style.

    He said: “History has been made by this administration. You are hungry to develop Edo State. Your administration is building the first and second flyover bridges in Edo State and you will be remembered by the people because these are landmark projects.”

    In Ekiti State, Governor Oyebanji assented to the 2026 budget of N415.573 billion.

    The governor also signed two other Bills – Ekiti State Revenue Administration Law, 2025, and the Ekiti State College of Technology, Ijero-Ekiti Bill, 2025 – into law.

    The governor described the three legislations as critical to the realisation of his administration’s shared prosperity agenda.

    He said the development was a product of collaboration between the executive and legislative arms.

    Oyebanji noted that the timely passage of the budget would ensure the sustenance of the January–December fiscal cycle in line with global best practices.

    The governor said the “Budget of Sustainable Governance” stood at N415,572,070,139.44, with 47 per cent allocated to Capital Expenditure and 53 per cent to Recurrent Expenditure.

    He explained that the budget was prepared after wide consultations with the people and that it aligned with the six pillars of his administration, which were derived from the Ekiti State Development Plan 2021–2050.

    Oyebanji stressed that the priority areas in the 2026 fiscal year include the completion of ongoing projects, food security, wealth creation and infrastructural development.

    The governor said the budget would also help his administration to consolidate its achievements as it approaches the end of its first term in office.

    He said the new legislation on Ekiti State College of Technology, Ijero-Ekiti, repealed the former College of Health Sciences and Technology Law of 2019, effectively upgrading the institution to a polytechnic.

    The governor expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for supporting Ekiti State.

    He assured the residents that his administration would continue to pursue policies aimed at improving the welfare and prosperity of the people.

  • Diri, Yahaya present N998b, N536b budget proposals for 2026 to Bayelsa, Gombe Assemblies

    Diri, Yahaya present N998b, N536b budget proposals for 2026 to Bayelsa, Gombe Assemblies

    Governors Douye Diri (Bayelsa) and Inuwa Yahaya (Gombe) yesterday presented Appropriation Bills of N998,371,313,943.04 and N535,691,983,000.00 to their Houses of Assembly for scrutiny and approval for the 2026 fiscal year.

    Diri said the Appropriation Bill, tagged: “Budget of Assured Prosperity II,” would be funded through various projected revenue sources, including statutory allocation of N42.2 billion, Value Added Tax (VAT) of N84 billion, 13 per cent derivation of N212.6 billion and other FAAC allocations of N488 billion.

    Other projected receipts are: internally generated revenue (IGR) of N85.9 billion, internal and external grants amounting to N24.9 billion, and domestic loans of N50 billion.

    The capital expenditure is expected to gulp N645.2 billion, which is 64.6 per cent of the total budget, while the recurrent expenditure is projected at N353.1 billion (35.4 per cent)

    The Ministry of Works and Infrastructure got N298.6 billion, which underscored the administration’s commitment to completing and expanding the state’s road network as well as other projects, like the nine-storey civil servants’ secretariat.

    The Ministry of Education was allotted N75.1 billion; Sports got N46.5 billion and Health received N39.7 billion.

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    The provision of pipe borne water got N10.8 billion, following Governor Diri’s earlier pledge to address the water challenge in the state in 2026.

    Some other areas the governor listed for attention include power generation and supply, which got N16.5 billion; security received  N21.5 billion; and agriculture was allocated N15.6 billion, among other sectors.

    Diri praised the legislature for its cooperation with the executive, saying members of that arm of government were elected to make laws for improved livng conditions of the residents.

    Addressing the House of Assembly during the Appropriation Bill presentation, the governor said: “Mr. Speaker, Bayelsans elected us to take bold actions to improve their quality of life. That is what we are doing and will continue to do. I trust that when history reviews our actions and this budget, our choices will be seen as the right ones.

    “In the 2026 fiscal year, we will continue with all ongoing projects, like the three senatorial roads; Glory Drive Phase 3, that will link Imgbi Road with a bridge crossing the Epie Creek; the Ogu-Akaba-Okodi Road; Sabagreia–Polaku Road; Toru–Orua–Bolu–Orua–Kabeama–Ebeni Road; internal roads; the ultra-modern state secretariat, among others.”

    He urged the Speaker and other members of the House of Assembly to give the Appropriation Bill careful consideration and expeditious passage.

    Speaker Abraham Ingobere lauded the governor’s commitment to developing road infrastructure, education, sports, healthcare, the power sector and other key areas.

    The Speaker noted that the governor’s effortd had tremendously transformed the state.

    He said: “From my assessment, the total overhaul of the education sector, infrastructure development, recruitment, training and retraining of teachers, establishment of technical and vocational schools in all the local government areas are yielding huge dividends and demonstrate the government’s dedication to middle level manpower development.”

    Ingobere assured Diri that the Assembly would prioritise the Appropriation Bill and ensure that it is passed in good time.

    Also, presenting the 2026 Appropriation Bill, tagged: “Budget of Consolidation,” Gombe State Governor Inuwa Yahaya said out of the N535,691,983,000.00 proposed budget, N164,250,813,000.00 was allocated for recurrent expenditure, representing 30.66 per cent, while N371,441,170,000.00 was earmarked for capital expenditure, representing 69.34 per cent of the budgeted sum.

    Explaining how the budget would be funded, Yahaya said: “In the 2026 fiscal year, we plan to generate N416,102,996,204.00 as recurrent revenues, and N225,570,000,000.00 as capital receipts.”

    According to him, the state’s estimated closing balance for 2025 is expected to be about N100 billion

    The governor said the Appropriation Bill was called the “Budget of Consolidation” to reflect his administration’s determination to consolidate its gains and institutionalise impactful governance.

    He said the proposed budget was designed to be both visionary and pragmatic, thereby ensuring that the state’s fiscal policies translated into tangible improvements in the lives of its citizens.

    Commenting on the performance of 2025 budget of N451.66 billion, Yahaya said as at September 30, it stood at N219.029 billion, representing 60.12 per cent.

    House of Assembly Speaker Abubakar Luggerewo hailed Governor Yahaya for his administration’s efforts towards improving the wellbeing of the citizens of the state.

    The Speaker assured the governor of speedy and due legislative activities on the proposed budget “in the interest of the people and the development of the state”.

  • Bayelsa APC Chair Otiotio welcomes Diri 

    Bayelsa APC Chair Otiotio welcomes Diri 

    The All-Progressives Congress (APC), Bayelsa Chapter, has expressed gratitude to Governor Douye Diri, Speaker Abraham Ngobere and members of the House of Assembly, members of the State Executive Council, local government chairmen, other appointees and teaming followers and supporters for officially joining the party. 

    In a statement by Bayelsa chairman of the party, Chief Dennis Otiotio Odoni, the APC heartily welcomed the Governor and his team to the Renewed Hope family.

    He pledged the unflinching and unalloyed support and loyalty of the entire members of the APC to the  Governor as the Leader of the party.  

    He expressed delight in the Governor’s decision to leave the PDP to join the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu whose reforms are reshaping the socio economic and political landscape of the country. 

    Otiotio eulogised the Governor for embarking on major projects such as the three senatorial roads, the ongoing installation of a 60 megawatts plug and play gas turbine amongst others. 

    He called on all party faithful in the state to embrace the new entrants into the party, noting that every member both old and new are equal with same rights and obligations.

  • Diri’s leadership, contribution to knowledge exceptional, say Shettima, Mutfwang, UNILAG

    Diri’s leadership, contribution to knowledge exceptional, say Shettima, Mutfwang, UNILAG

    • …Varsity endows chair in gov’s honour

    Vice President Kashim Shettima, Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, and Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, have lauded Governor Douye Diri’s remarkable strides in the education sector through transformative initiatives. 

    They described his administration’s reforms and investments in the sector as visionary in driving a knowledge-based economy.

    They gave the commendation at the formal Book Presentation/Launch, Public Lecture and Institution of a Professorial Chair on Leadership and Good Governance in honour of Senator Diri at the University of Lagos on Wednesday.

    They said his book, “Leadership Chronicles of Governor Douye Diri” which was edited by Prof. Hope Eghagha and Sola Ojewusi under the UNILAG Consult, and the endowment of a professorial chair in the Department of Political Science were not only tributes to the Bayelsa governor but also a masterclass in leadership.

    Shettima, who was represented by the deputy governor of Lagos State, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, said the book captured the spirit of Diri’s leadership style, which he said was “refreshing, deliberate and deeply attuned to the oaths and aspirations of his people.”

    Hamzat, who also spoke on behalf of the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, noted that Diri’s stewardship in Bayelsa in about six years had been characterised by a rare blend of compassion and competence and demonstrated that meaningful progress could be achieved through dialogue, inclusiveness and relentless effort.

    “l congratulate Governor Douye Diri on this well-earned honour. This celebration is a testament to your unwavering service, examplary character and steadfastness to the principles of good governance. Bayelsa and Nigeria stand proud of your achievements and the inspiring values you uphold.

    “This book captures the spirit of his leadership, core values and courage that define his path. It reminds us that leadership is not about self- aggrandisement but about the lasting impact we forge through lifting our communities and fostering peace and creating opportunities where none existed. It is more than a tribute in leadership transformation that he brings to the lives of his people.”

    Shettima expressed the hope that the book would serve as a beacon to inspire leadership across the country to lead compassionately and courageously.

    The keynote speaker and Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang, described Diri as a great Nigerian,

    who has demonstrated in spirit and in letter the essence of leadership.

    Mutfwang congratulated the Vice Chancellor and UNILAG Consult for documenting Diri’s achievements, which he described as a befitting and prestigious honour.  

    According to him, the Bayelsa governor has demonstrated quality leadership in virtually every facet of development, particularly in areas of education, healthcare delivery, security and the ongoing effort to light up the state through its independent power project.

    He equally stressed the need for Bayelsans, the Ijaw nation and the South South to unite and foster peace and development in the region.

    Read Also: Diri: I joined APC to stop Bayelsa from being buried with PDP

    “Several people have had the opportunity to be in leadership and have been forgotten. But l know that when Governor Diri vacates the scene, the drums will still be beating.”

    In her remarks, the Vice Chancellor, Prof Folasade Ogunsola, said the book provided an opportunity to examine ideas, experiences and reflections of a leader serving in one of Nigeria’s most complex and dynamic regions.

    She noted that the Bayelsa governor’s public life offered valuable insights into governance, conflict management and search for peace and development in the Niger Delta.

    Ogunsola said the professorial chair in honour of Diri aligned with the institution’s mission to be a global centre of excellence in education, research and innovation.

    She commended the Bayelsa governor for investing in knowledge as it was one of the most enduring contributions any public servant can make to society.

    Responding, Governor Diri said the honour would spur him and his team to work harder in service of the state.

    He noted that the recognition was not only for him but was for the entire Bayelsa, and expressed appreciation to the VC, the institution’s management and the editorial team for acknowledging and compiling his administration’s achievements.

    “Those in positions of authority must be accountable to the people and earn their trust without which confidence in governance will inevitably wane. It is in that spirit that l accept this book, which seeks to honour not only me but the entirety of Bayelsa State.

    “I accept to support the professorial chair and encourage scholarship that would be beneficial not only to Bayelsa State but also to Nigeria.”

    The book was reviewed by veteran journalist and anchor of the programme, Journalists Hangout, on Television Continental (TVC), Mr. Babajide Kolade-Otitoju.

    More than one billion naira was pledged at the event as donations by national and state assembly members, government agencies, corporate organisations, members of the state executive council, local governments, private individuals and youth bodies among others.

    Dignitaries at the well-attended event included serving and former national and state assembly members as well as Senator Sunday Katung representing Kaduna South, the immediate past deputy governor and chairman, Bayelsa Elders Council, Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John-Jonah (rtd). 

    Also present were the National Chairman of the Pan Niger Delta Forum, Dr. Boladei Igali, Chairman/CEO of De Wayles Group of Companies, High Chief Victor Egukawhore, who was the chief launcher, CEO of Pelfaco Limited, Chief Gesi Asamaowei, CEO of Century Energy, Mr Ken Etete as well as the Managing Director, Niger Delta River Basin Development Authority, Ebitimi Amgbare, and former Managing Director, Niger Delta Development Commission, Chief Ndutimi Alaibe.

    Others were the chairman, Bayelsa State Council of Traditional Rulers, King Bubaraye Dakolo, former All Progressives Congress governorship candidate, Chief David Lyon, Managing Director, Monimichelle Construction Limited, Mr. Ebi Egbe as well as the Ijaw Ladies Association and various Niger Delta and Ijaw groups based in Lagos.

  • Diri urges Dangote to establish rice mills in Bayelsa

    Diri urges Dangote to establish rice mills in Bayelsa

    Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, has called on business mogul Aliko Dangote to complement his investment in rice farming by establishing rice mills near the farm clusters in the state.

    Diri made the appeal on Monday during the flag-off of the 2025 National Food Intervention Programme in Yenagoa.

    Represented by his deputy, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, the governor commended the Alhaji Aliko Dangote Foundation for supporting the state’s efforts to improve the welfare of its people, particularly the vulnerable.

    He described Dangote’s intervention as heartwarming and urged other individuals and corporate organisations to emulate the billionaire philanthropist’s gesture in addressing food security and poverty.

    Governor Diri also reminded Dangote of the partnership between his organisation and the Bayelsa State Government, encouraging further collaboration for the establishment of processing facilities to add value to local agricultural produce.

    He said, “I want to thank the Aliko Dangote Foundation. We particularly thank Alhaji Aliko Dangote because we have a lucrative and viable relationship with Alhaji Dangote himself. We commend his gesture because he has been giving, according to him, for the past 30 years. I encourage us all to give to the needy.

    Read Also: Diri in the eyes of Bayelsans

    “The spirit of giving is not limited to those who are rich. So, l encourage us all to give as much as you can. It is the quantum that you give that is important, and not the volume of what you give. If you are giving from your heart, you are already giving your widow’s might.

    “However, we need to remind the Dangote Group about a few things: The last time its chairman visited Bayelsa State, he said we should try and get ourselves together and that he will be coming to buy our rice. So we are ready.

    “We will see how we can bridge that gap because there seems to be some gaps, so that when our farmers finish harvesting, we will not look for buyers because we already know him as one of our off-takers. Again, we are looking forward to the issue of building a rice mill by the farm clusters.”

    Head of Operations, Aliko Dangote Foundation, Lagos State, Mr. Victor Edero, said the organisation had been in existence for over 30 years and they were in the state to flag off the distribution of 10,000 ten-kilogram bags of rice across the 8 local government areas.

    He explained that the National Food Intervention Programme by the foundation would distribute the items across the 774 local government areas of Nigeria.

    Edero said the programme was intended to support food security initiatives at the grassroots, particularly the vulnerable group in society, to cushion the effects of economic hardship.

    He appealed to the relevant authorities put in place by the state government to ensure that the food items were distributed to persons with disabilities, widows, market women, artisans and other vulnerable persons in the state.

    Responding on behalf of other beneficiaries, the state Chairman, Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities, Mr. Ekpomokumor Doutimiareye, expressed delight at the Aliko Dangote Foundation for giving back to society through the donation of food items to the people.

  • Diri in the eyes of Bayelsans

    Diri in the eyes of Bayelsans

    • By Asu Beks

    Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri has been described variously by different persons depending on the perspective one views his achievements in office as governor in the last five years. To some people, he is a silent revolutionary in infrastructure development. To some other persons, he is a wealth creator, having created employment to hundreds of Bayelsa people in the last five years. There are those who see him not just as a politician but as an accomplished administrator and humanist, whose thirst for the welfare of his people remains unquenchable. Yet, there are those who describe him as the best governor to have ever led Bayelsa State since its creation in 1996, some 29 years ago.

    However, from whichever angle one may like to look at the man, Diri, one obvious fact about his sojourn in Bayelsa State Government is that he has transformed the state from being just an aquatic state where people commute using boat, to a city with chains of road networks, such that movement from point A to B becomes very easy for the people; a development many said had opened up the state to rapid economic development and growth and invariably boosting commercial activities like never before.

    Focused and humble, with deep sense of passion for the development of the state, Diri has actually moved the state out of the league of weak states in Nigeria to one of the strongest in terms of infrastructural, human capital and economic development.

    From 1996, when the state was created, four governors had steered the ship of the state before Diri. Starting from Diepreye Alamieseigha to Goodluck Jonathan, Tmipreye Sylva and Seriake Dickson, none is comparable to Diri, in terms of overall performance. Although most of what he is building on were the foundations laid by Alamieseigha, credit must be given to him as a man who was able to bring those beautiful dreams to reality.

    Some of the projects that have marked him out as example of what a governor should represent include redesigning and reconstruction of the Edepie/Etegwe Roundabout in Yenagoa LGA; the completion of Imiringi Bridge in Ogbia LGA; reconstruction and completion of the collapsed Elebele Bridge in Ogbia LGA; initiation, construction and inauguration of the six kilometre Igbedi Community Road in Kolokuma/Opokuma LGA; completion and inauguration of Nembe Unity Bridge in Nembe LGA; completion of the Onopa Bridge and construction of the access road into the New Yenagoa City; actualization of the vision of the New Yenagoa City and dualisation of all the roads in the city; construction and inauguration of Phase 1-4 of the Igbogene-AIT/Elebele Outer Ring Road in Yenagoa LGA; construction and inauguration of the dualised Glory Drive Phase 2, Igbogene by the Ecumenical Centre to link Tombia Road, in Yenagoa LGA and completion of Phase 2 of the Isaac Boro Expressway and Etegwe Bridge in Yenagoa LGA.

    Others include the continued construction of the Yenagoa-Oporoma-Ukubie Road in Bayelsa Central Senatorial District; completion and inauguration of the Aguobiri Bridge across Silver River with the stretch of road to Angiama community even as work on the Angiama-Oporoma Bridge progresses; completion of the Sagbama-Ekeremor Road in Bayelsa West Senatorial District with five new bridges; rehabilitation and construction of over 100 internal roads in Yenagoa; commencement of  21km Phase One Nembe-Brass Road (Work ongoing); commencement of Akaba-Okodi Road to link riverine communities in Ogbia LGA and reconstruction of Onuegbum-Otuoke Road.

    He also took over construction of the abandoned Polaku-Sabagreia Road linking Yenagoa LGA to Kolokuma/Opokuma LGA, commenced construction of Bolou-Orua-Akeddei-Toru-Ebeni Road in Sagbama LGA; continued the dualisation of Opolo-Elebele Road in Yenagoa and initiated and completed hundreds of internal concrete roads in several rural communities across the eight LGAs.

    The governor has many ongoing construction projects including construction of the road to Otuan community, Southern Ijaw LGA; construction of the road to Enewari community, Southern Ijaw LGA and the construction of Phase 3 of Glory Drive with bridge across Epie Creek at Imgbi Road Junction.

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    He also took over the construction of Kalama-Sampou Road along East-West Road from NDDC and the construction of the road from New Yenagoa City linking Tombia-Amassoma Road.

    Apart from the massive road constructions, Gov Diri earlier this year embarked on ground breaking projects like the construction of the Bayelsa International Stadium and the iconic nine-storey new secretariat complex. Laying the foundation for the secretariat, the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Dame Didi Walson-Jack, expressed delight for the legacy project, noting that when completed, it would go down in her memory as an exciting legacy of the Diri administration.

    The governor also commissioned a Haemodialysis Centre to mark his 5th anniversary celebration in office as Bayelsa State Governor.

    Apart from road infrastructure, Diri administration is also focused on the provision of potable water in the state capital and environs upon completion of an independent power plant project by the end of this year. The people are also elated following the planned delivery of the 60MW twin gas-powered turbines procured by the government as work on the installation site at Elebele nears completion.

    Addressing a large crowd at the King Koko Square in Nembe, headquarters of the Nembe Local Government Area, earlier this year, during his ‘Thank-You Tour’ of the eight councils in the state, Diri spoke about his administration’s effort to provide stable electricity to his people saying, “On the issue of power, there is good news. As you are aware, we have procured an independent power plant and very soon, we will no longer depend on the existing power supply arrangement. We will soon take delivery of the 60-megawatt gas turbines and the site for the installation is almost completed.”

    Governor Diri’s vision for economic growth is also not in doubt. His administration has received widespread praise for embracing technology to drive economic growth and fiscal sustainability. With the e-ticketing breakthrough in revenue collection, Diri is rewriting the narrative of financial management in Nigeria and equally reshaping governance in Bayelsa. Once plagued by revenue leakages and inefficiencies, the new e-ticketing system has helped the state to record a historic milestone in its internally generated revenue (IGR), pulling in an unprecedented ₦4.2 billion in a single month, a staggering 320 percent increase from previous figures.

    With the increased revenue, Bayelsa is now in a better position to fund infrastructure projects, improve healthcare services, enhance education, and support social welfare programs.

    This landmark achievement signals a shift towards financial independence, reducing the state’s overreliance on federal allocations. Analysts have hailed this as a crucial step in achieving long-term economic stability, adding that with the system in place, Bayelsa is setting a precedent for digital revenue collection in Nigeria.

    In all of this, Diri has not forgotten the role of human resources in the economic development of any society. In recognition of the central role of labour to the economic development of the state, he expanded the state’s workforce by employing 1000 personnel into the state civil service. Apart from strengthening the state’s workforce, the move is also aimed at reducing unemployment and improving the welfare of the people.

    A close and critical appraisal of his performance so far lends credence to the position in many quarters that he remains the best governor since the creation of Bayelsa State in 1996.

    Asu Beks writes from Lagos

  • South-South APC urges Diri, Fubara to dump PDP, adopts Tinubu as sole candidate

    South-South APC urges Diri, Fubara to dump PDP, adopts Tinubu as sole candidate

    The South South zone of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has urged Bayelsa Governor Duoye Diri and suspended Rivers Governor Siminalayi Fubara to dump the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and pitch tent with the ruling party.

    It adopted President Bola Tinubu as its sole presidential candidate for the 2027 election.

    The South South APC also adopted all its Governors in the zone as the party’s candidate in the 2027 governorship elections.

    This was contained in a communique at the end of its zonal stakeholders meeting held in Benin City, Edo State capital.

    Reading the communique before the well attended meeting, South South Vice Chairman of the party, Victor Giadom, commended President Tinubu for his reforms and policies to reposition the country.

    According to the communique: “We commend Mr. President for his uncommon love and support for the South-South region, which is clearly reflected in the support for the emergence of Senate President for the region in the person of, Senator Godswill Akpabio.

    “We also take cognisance of the massive developmental projects in the region, including but not limited to the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road.

    “We therefore unanimously pass a vote of confidence on our uncommon President of the Senate, His Excellency Senator Godswill Akpabio, for his outstanding leadership, for uniting the South-South region, and for his support for the renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President.

    “We welcome the Governors, stakeholders, and supporters of the South-South states for their patriotic and courageous decisions of embracing the renewed Home Agenda and joining the All Progressive Congress, APC.

    “We therefore humbly call on the remaining two non-APC governors of the region, namely governors of Rivers State and Bayelsa State, and their supporters, to also join the Progressive family in the APC.

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    “Finally, we pass a vote of confidence on the four APC governors of the South-South region, namely Senator Bassey Edet Otu of Cross Rivers State; Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State, Pastor Eno Umoh of Akwa-Ibom State, and Senator Monday Okpebholo of Edo State. And adopt them as our sole candidatesfor the 2027 elections

    “We commend the party, we commend all the elected APC senators, members of the House of Representatives, ministers of the Federal Republic of Nigeria from the South-South, heads of MDAs, political appointees from the South-South region, for their loyalty to the party and for their support for the renewed Home Agenda.

    “Further, we also recommend and commend the FCT Minister, His Excellency Nyesom Wike, leaders of the South-South region, for his continued support for the President and the renewed Home Agenda. We sincerely appreciate all members of the party, stakeholders, and supporters in the South-South region for their continued support and dedication to the party.

    “We hereby unanimously adopt Mr. President, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as our sole candidate for the 2027 election. That is the decision of the South-South Zone of the All-Progressive Congress.”

    The motion for the adoption of the communique read by Giadom was moved by Majority Leader of the House of Representatives, Professor Julius Ihonvbere, and seconded by the senator representing Edo North Senatorial District, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole,

    Governor Okpebholo expressed optimism that the meeting had the potential to unite not only the South-South geopolitical zone, but the entire nation.

    Okpebholo said the South-South zone was gradually going back its foundation of integrated politics.

    He said the achievements he has recorded would not have been possible if there were no responsible President behind him.

    “President Tinubu is a man with uncommon wisdom and uncommon capacity. We are grateful to him.

    APC Acting National Chairman, Alhaji Ali Bukar Dalori, said the South-South zone remained strategic to the nation’s development.

    He called on the zone to be fully integrated into the party at the centre.

    Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, said, “South-South is the chicken, if you like, that lays the golden eggs. If we are the chicken that lays the golden eggs, we equally have the right to determine who shares the golden eggs that come from the south-South.

    “Ahead of 2027, the South-South is speaking with one voice that we are with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu United. This is our mandate in the South-South”.

  • Diri suspends traditional ruler over sons’ involvement in cultism

    Diri suspends traditional ruler over sons’ involvement in cultism

    Bayelsa Governor Douye Diri has approved the suspension of the Paramount Ruler of Swali Community in Yenagoa Local Government Area, HRH Wilcox Seiyefa Job.

    The suspension takes immediate effect. 

    In a statement by the Commissioner for Information, Orientation and Strategy, Mrs. Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai and the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Chief Thompson Amule, the Governor said the monarch’s suspension was due to his inability to show leadership expected of his position in the fight against crime and cultism.

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    The statement reads: “The Monarch’s suspension is due to the traditional ruler’s inability to show leadership expected of his position in the fight against crime and cultism amidst credible intelligence that two of his sons are involved in cult activities in the community.

    “The Commissioner of Police has been directed to declare the two royal sons and all those involved in cultism in Swali wanted. All those involved are to be arrested for investigation and prosecution.”

  • Diri lauds Bayelsa Queens on NWFL championship

    Diri lauds Bayelsa Queens on NWFL championship

    Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, has praised the tenacity of the state-sponsored Bayelsa Queens after emerging champions of the 2025 National Women Football League (NWFL).

    The Prosperity Girls on Saturday trounced Naija Ratels 4-1 in the last game of the Super Six playoffs, coming tops with 10 points from five matches.

    The team clinched the female league title for a record sixth time, dethroning defending champions, Edo Queens, which played goalless with Nasarawa Amazons in their final game.

    Diri, in a congratulatory message issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Daniel Alabrah, said Bayelsa Queens were worthy champions as they were unbeaten in 14 games during the regular season and lost just once during the Super Six.

    He said: “On behalf of the government and people of Bayelsa State, I congratulate the worthy champions of the 2024/2025 female league in our country. As a government, we are very proud of this achievement.

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    “The team has again showed that with hard work, focus and determination, it could surmount challenges.

    “I particularly salute the resilience of our girls in maintaining an unbeaten run throughout the regular season. The victory is a fitting reward for their effort and we are indeed proud of them.

    “I commend the Commissioner for Sports, Daniel Igali, Coach Ogbonda Whyte and the technical crew as well as the players for a job well done.”

    The sports-loving governor urged the team not to rest on their laurels as they prepare for another attempt to conquer the continent.

    Diri also charged the girls to remain focused on the assignment ahead and that the state government would arrange a formal reception for the victorious team.

    Bayelsa Queens picked the ticket to represent Nigeria in the 2025 CAF Women Champions League three years after it first did in the 2022 edition in Morocco where it came third after winning the WAFU B zonal qualifiers in Cote d’Ivoire.