Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has called on Ijaw people in the Diaspora, as well as businessmen and women, to contribute to the development of their homeland. In a New Year address, the governor emphasized the importance of collaboration with both international and local investors to unlock Bayelsa’s potential.
In his address, delivered on Wednesday, January 1st 2024, Governor Diri outlined his administration's dedication to making the state an attractive investment destination. He expressed confidence that the state's future would be bright if the Ijaw people, both within and outside Nigeria, united with the government for collective progress.
"As we begin this new year, I feel a renewed sense of hope and optimism," Diri said. "We have made considerable strides, and we are more determined than ever to build a prosperous future for Bayelsa." He noted that Bayelsa is the only state in Nigeria that is home to the Ijaw people, which gives it unique potential for development.
Governor Diri further assured that the state offers an excellent environment for businesses and professionals to thrive, citing the state’s security and hospitality as key advantages. “Bayelsa is the safest state in Nigeria. It is a place where entrepreneurs can establish and grow their businesses with peace of mind,” he stated.
Reflecting on the previous year, Diri acknowledged the economic challenges faced, including currency depreciation. Despite these, he assured Bayelsans that the administration had prudently managed resources, which allowed for significant progress in infrastructure and legacy projects. Key initiatives included the construction of new roads to improve connectivity in the state capital, Yenagoa, and other parts of the state.
The governor also highlighted plans to improve housing in Bayelsa with the launch of "The Prosperity Estates." This project, which aims to provide 1,000 affordable homes, is part of the administration's goal to improve living standards for residents. Additionally, he promised continued efforts to enhance power supply, announcing plans to procure and install a 60-megawatt gas turbine to guarantee independent energy production.
Diri reiterated the government’s commitment to improving security, stressing that steps are being taken to maintain Bayelsa’s reputation as one of the safest states in the country. Among the measures, he revealed that new Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras would be installed while existing ones would be upgraded.
As part of ongoing infrastructure improvements, Diri emphasized that education and healthcare facilities are receiving targeted investments. The governor also reaffirmed plans for the construction of an ultra-modern sports stadium in Yenagoa to foster sports development in the state.
In the agricultural sector, Diri unveiled plans to boost food production, particularly through the "Produce and Consume" initiative. This project will promote sustainable agriculture by supporting local farmers with equipment, training, and high-quality seeds. Diri pointed out the success of Bayelsa’s partnership with South Korea, which recently sent experts to train local farmers in modern rice cultivation techniques and installed advanced rice processing mills in Yenagoa.
The governor’s address highlighted his administration’s vision for Bayelsa’s future—one built on collaboration, security, sustainable development, and economic prosperity. As the state continues to make strides in key sectors, Governor Diri is hopeful that Bayelsans, especially those in the Diaspora, will play a pivotal role in shaping the state’s future.
