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On Sunday, September 28, 2025, Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, delivered an optimistic assessment of his administration’s achievements, emphasizing tangible progress in the state’s development despite significant financial and structural challenges. Represented by his deputy, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, the governor addressed a gathering at an inter-denominational church service held at the King of Glory Chapel in the Government House, Yenagoa. The event was organized to commemorate Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary and the 29th anniversary of Bayelsa State’s creation, offering a platform to reflect on the state’s journey and chart a path for its future.
The inter-denominational service, attended by a cross-section of dignitaries, including political leaders, religious figures, and top government officials, was a moment of gratitude and introspection. It provided an opportunity for the state to celebrate its milestones while acknowledging the hurdles it continues to face as one of Nigeria’s youngest states. Governor Diri used the occasion to reaffirm his administration’s commitment to transformative governance, highlighting key initiatives and addressing systemic challenges that have shaped Bayelsa’s trajectory since its establishment on October 1, 1996.
A Vision for Progress Amid Challenges
Governor Diri’s remarks underscored the resilience of his administration, which he described as the “Prosperity Government,” in driving development despite limited resources. Bayelsa, located in the heart of the Niger Delta, is a state endowed with immense natural resources, particularly crude oil and natural gas, which contribute significantly to Nigeria’s economy. However, the state faces unique challenges, including environmental degradation, infrastructural deficits, and a relatively small revenue base due to its limited number of local government areas.
“Bayelsa’s growth has been modest, but it is steady,” the governor noted, speaking through his deputy. “We are making tangible progress despite the constraints in resources and structural disadvantages that we face as a state.” This acknowledgment of challenges was not a lament but a call to action, as the governor outlined his administration’s efforts to overcome these barriers through strategic planning and innovative policies.
One of the flagship initiatives highlighted during the address was the procurement of a 60-megawatt gas turbine, a project aimed at addressing one of Bayelsa’s most pressing needs: reliable electricity. The governor expressed confidence that by December 2025, Bayelsa would achieve a 24-hour power supply, a milestone that he described as a game-changer for the state’s socio-economic landscape. “Once there is light, there is hope,” he declared, emphasizing the transformative potential of stable electricity. “With this development, we believe more investors will be attracted to Bayelsa, creating jobs and boosting economic activities.”
The promise of uninterrupted power is particularly significant in a state where businesses and households have long grappled with erratic electricity supply. The gas turbine project aligns with broader efforts to leverage Bayelsa’s abundant natural gas resources to drive industrialization and improve the quality of life for residents. By prioritizing energy infrastructure, the Diri administration aims to position Bayelsa as a hub for investment, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism, which have been identified as critical to diversifying the state’s economy.
Addressing Structural Disadvantages
Governor Diri also shed light on the structural challenges that have hindered Bayelsa’s development, particularly its limited revenue allocation from the federal government. Unlike other Nigerian states with larger numbers of local government areas, Bayelsa has only eight, which significantly reduces its share of federal funds. This structural disadvantage has placed the state at a financial deficit compared to its peers, making it more challenging to fund critical infrastructure and social programs.
Despite this, the governor emphasized that his administration has remained steadfast in its commitment to delivering the dividends of democracy. “Our Prosperity Government is focused on boosting socio-economic activities across all sectors,” he said. “We are not deterred by the limitations of revenue allocation. Instead, we are exploring innovative ways to maximize our resources and create opportunities for our people.”
This approach has seen the implementation of various projects aimed at improving infrastructure, education, healthcare, and youth empowerment. For instance, the state government has invested in road construction and rehabilitation to enhance connectivity between rural and urban areas. Additionally, initiatives to improve access to quality education and healthcare services have been prioritized, with a focus on reducing disparities between urban centers like Yenagoa and remote communities in the state’s riverine areas.
The governor’s remarks also touched on the broader context of governance in Nigeria, stressing the importance of upholding the rule of law and protecting citizens’ rights. “For our democracy to thrive, we must respect the rule of law and ensure that the rights of every citizen are upheld,” he said. This statement reflects Diri’s belief that good governance is the foundation for sustainable development, not only in Bayelsa but across Nigeria. By advocating for transparency, accountability, and inclusivity, the governor positioned his administration as one that prioritizes the welfare of its people above political considerations.
A Spiritual Perspective on Bayelsa’s Journey
The inter-denominational service featured a thought-provoking sermon titled “Challengers of Our Settlement,” delivered by General Stephen Odede, a respected religious leader. In his message, General Odede described Bayelsa as a state destined for greatness, despite the numerous challenges it faces. “Bayelsa is a great state, and its people are destined to triumph over their adversaries,” he declared, drawing parallels between the state’s struggles and the biblical narrative of overcoming obstacles through faith and resilience.
General Odede’s sermon resonated with the audience, many of whom have witnessed Bayelsa’s evolution from its creation in 1996 to its current status as a key player in Nigeria’s socio-political landscape. He acknowledged the state’s challenges, including environmental issues stemming from oil exploration, militancy, and economic marginalization, but emphasized that these were not insurmountable. “With faith, determination, and collective effort, Bayelsa will continue to rise,” he said, urging the people to remain united in their pursuit of progress.
The sermon also highlighted the importance of gratitude, as General Odede called on Bayelsans to give thanks for the state’s achievements over the past 29 years. From its modest beginnings, Bayelsa has grown into a state with significant potential, boasting a rich cultural heritage, a vibrant youth population, and strategic importance in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry. The religious leader’s message served as a reminder that while challenges exist, they are part of a larger journey toward growth and prosperity.
A Gathering of Dignitaries
The church service was attended by a distinguished array of dignitaries, reflecting the significance of the occasion. Among those present were former Deputy Governor, Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John-Jonah (Rtd.), who played a key role in the state’s early development. Other notable attendees included members of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Nimibofa Ayawei, service commanders, commissioners, and other senior government officials. Their presence underscored the unity and collective commitment to advancing Bayelsa’s development agenda.
The event also featured special prayers for the peace and prosperity of Bayelsa, the Niger Delta, and Nigeria as a whole. These prayers, led by various religious leaders, sought divine intervention in addressing the challenges facing the state and the nation, including insecurity, economic hardship, and environmental degradation. The inclusion of prayers for the Niger Delta region highlighted the interconnectedness of Bayelsa’s progress with that of its neighboring states, all of which share common challenges and opportunities as part of Nigeria’s oil-producing region.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary
The dual celebration of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary and Bayelsa’s 29th anniversary provided an opportunity to reflect on the broader context of nationhood and statehood. Nigeria’s journey since gaining independence from British colonial rule on October 1, 1960, has been marked by significant achievements and challenges. The country has made strides in areas such as education, infrastructure, and global diplomacy, but it continues to grapple with issues such as corruption, insecurity, and economic inequality.
For Bayelsa, the past 29 years have been a period of growth and transformation. Created on October 1, 1996, by the military administration of General Sani Abacha, Bayelsa was carved out of the old Rivers State to address the marginalization of the Ijaw people and other ethnic groups in the region. Since then, the state has made significant strides in establishing its identity and asserting its relevance within Nigeria’s federal structure.
However, Bayelsa’s journey has not been without difficulties. The state’s location in the Niger Delta, a region plagued by environmental degradation due to oil exploration, has posed significant challenges to its development. Oil spills, gas flaring, and other forms of environmental pollution have affected agriculture, fishing, and the overall quality of life for many residents. Additionally, the state has faced security challenges, including militancy and piracy, which have at times disrupted economic activities.
Despite these obstacles, Bayelsa has made notable progress in various areas. The state has produced prominent leaders, including former President Goodluck Jonathan, who served as Nigeria’s president from 2010 to 2015. Its contributions to Nigeria’s oil and gas industry remain critical, with Bayelsa accounting for a significant portion of the country’s crude oil production. The Diri administration’s focus on infrastructure, energy, and socio-economic development is seen as a continuation of efforts to build on this foundation and create a more prosperous future for Bayelsans.
Looking Ahead: A Roadmap for Prosperity
As Bayelsa marks its 29th anniversary, the state stands at a critical juncture. The Diri administration’s vision for a “Prosperity Government” is rooted in the belief that strategic investments in infrastructure, education, and economic diversification can unlock Bayelsa’s full potential. The governor’s emphasis on achieving a 24-hour power supply by December 2025 is a bold step toward addressing one of the state’s most pressing needs. Stable electricity has the potential to transform not only the economy but also the daily lives of residents, enabling businesses to thrive and households to enjoy a higher standard of living.
Beyond energy, the administration is also focusing on improving road networks, particularly in the state’s riverine areas, which are often difficult to access. Projects such as the construction of bridges and roads across Bayelsa’s numerous waterways are aimed at enhancing connectivity and promoting trade. Additionally, the government is investing in education and skills development to empower the state’s youth, who represent a significant portion of the population. By equipping young people with the tools they need to succeed, the administration hopes to reduce unemployment and foster entrepreneurship.
The governor’s call for adherence to the rule of law and respect for citizens’ rights also signals a commitment to building a more inclusive and equitable society. In a region where tensions between communities, government, and oil companies have sometimes led to conflict, this emphasis on good governance is a step toward fostering peace and stability.
Conclusion
The inter-denominational church service at the King of Glory Chapel was more than a ceremonial event; it was a moment to reflect on Bayelsa’s journey, celebrate its achievements, and renew the commitment to its future. Governor Douye Diri’s message of steady progress, delivered through his deputy, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, resonated with the audience as a reminder of the resilience and determination that define the Bayelsa spirit. From the procurement of a 60-megawatt gas turbine to efforts to address structural disadvantages, the administration is laying the foundation for a more prosperous and sustainable future.
As Bayelsa looks ahead to its 30th anniversary and beyond, the state’s leaders and people are united in their aspiration to overcome challenges and seize opportunities. With faith, unity, and strategic vision, Bayelsa is poised to fulfill its destiny as a beacon of progress in the Niger Delta and a vital contributor to Nigeria’s growth. The prayers offered during the service—for peace, prosperity, and divine guidance—reflect the collective hope that Bayelsa will continue to rise, triumphing over its adversaries and building a legacy of resilience and achievement.