The Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, emphasized the critical need for all levels of government, private sector, and development partners to invest more in human resources as a key driver of the nation’s development.
The deputy governor's remarks came during a New Year visit by the leadership of Bayelsa West Senatorial District, led by former Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Seriake Dickson. The delegation visited Ewhrudjakpo at his residence in Ofoni, Sagbama Local Government Area, on Thursday. Among the delegation was prominent political figure Hon. Fyneman Wilson, who also spoke on the need for unity within the political class for sustained development in the region.
Senator Ewhrudjakpo, speaking to the delegation, highlighted that human capital development should be at the core of efforts aimed at achieving sustainable development. He asserted that society would progress faster if the workforce was adequately trained, innovative, and productive.
"The most important thing some people don't know is that, of all the resources in this world, human beings are the most important," Ewhrudjakpo stated, emphasizing the role of education and skills development in unlocking the potential of the people. However, he cautioned that education should not only focus on obtaining degrees or certificates but must also prioritize competence, creativity, and innovation to make meaningful contributions to societal growth.
He urged government and development partners to make significant investments in human capital to unlock the potential that could drive both the state's and the nation's development forward. According to Ewhrudjakpo, only by focusing on human development can true and lasting progress be achieved.
During the visit, Senator Ewhrudjakpo expressed his gratitude to the people of Bayelsa West, acknowledging their consistent support for him and his office. He also took the opportunity to thank Governor Douye Diri for his support and leadership, stating that it was due to Diri's enablement that he was able to effectively serve the people of Bayelsa.
He also praised the longstanding unity of the Bayelsa West political bloc, which he said has been a feature since the days of old Rivers State. According to Ewhrudjakpo, it is important to preserve this unity to ensure the district’s continued progress.
“I am humbled by the encomiums poured on me for service to Bayelsa West,” Ewhrudjakpo said. “But I would like to make it clear that I owe this to Governor Diri, who has been a great supporter of mine.”
Senator Seriake Dickson, in his remarks, commended the deputy governor for his exemplary leadership, describing him as a worthy ambassador of the Bayelsa West Senatorial District. Dickson affirmed that the choices made in leadership, particularly that of Ewhrudjakpo and Governor Diri, had been proven to be beneficial for the people of Bayelsa.
He urged continued collaboration among political leaders and the people, noting that only through unity could the district move forward. "We are with you and your boss, the Governor, and we are praying for the continued success of the Bayelsa State Government," Dickson said. He further emphasized the importance of avoiding divisive politics and maintaining a united front for the betterment of the people.
Hon. Fyneman Wilson, a key figure in the district, also echoed these sentiments. He attributed the increasing unity in Bayelsa West to Ewhrudjakpo’s leadership style, which he described as open and people-centric. Wilson assured that the entire senatorial district remained behind Ewhrudjakpo, pledging to sustain the unity that had been established.
The Bayelsa West delegation was also joined by other prominent figures, including Dr. Godbless Oyinke, representing Sagbama Constituency 1 in the State House of Assembly, former Secretary to the State Government Senator Felix Oboro, and former House of Representatives member, Hon. Christopher Enai, among others. The delegation expressed their appreciation for the hospitality of the Ofoni community, with Dr. O.O. Osusu, a community leader, assuring the leaders of the community's continued support for Senator Dickson and other political stakeholders.
In a related development, Senator Ewhrudjakpo addressed the chairmen of the Rural Development Authorities (RDAs), urging them to adopt innovative approaches to governance in light of the current economic challenges facing the country. He stressed that in times of economic hardship, leaders must be resourceful and think creatively to deliver the expected benefits of governance to their communities.
This visit by the Bayelsa West leadership, along with the Deputy Governor’s calls for human capital investment and unity, is a significant step in ensuring that Bayelsa’s development continues on a sustainable and inclusive path. As the region navigates its future, the message of collaboration, unity, and effective leadership is more relevant than ever.
