At the 143rd State Executive Council Meeting in Yenagoa, on November 13, 2024, Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri expressed heartfelt thanks to President Bola Tinubu for appointing distinguished Bayelsans to critical federal roles.
Governor Diri hailed these appointments as a recognition of Bayelsa’s contributions to Nigeria and a demonstration of trust in the state’s expertise.
“We thank Mr. President for appointing our very own into positions of national importance,” Diri remarked, highlighting appointees like Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, the new Minister of State for Petroleum Resources; Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, Head of Service of the Federation; Dr. Emomotimi Agama, Director-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission; Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission; and Prince Ebitimi Amgbare, Chief Executive Officer of the Niger Delta Basin Development Authority.
The governor also acknowledged the widespread support his administration has received from Bayelsans, particularly evident at the annual statewide thanksgiving event on November 2. “Our leaders, women, and youths came out in numbers,” Diri said, expressing gratitude for the turnout and the shared commitment to Bayelsa’s prosperity.
Taking a forward-looking approach, Governor Diri urged Bayelsans to seize emerging opportunities in the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy. Calling it a sector close to the heart of the Ijaw people, he emphasized its relevance to Bayelsa’s heritage in marine, fishing, and farming. “The ministry is not just a department; it reflects the way of life for us as Ijaw people,” Diri declared. He expressed his vision for Bayelsa to lead Nigeria’s blue economy efforts, shifting focus beyond oil and gas to establish a diversified economy that capitalizes on the state’s vast marine resources. “This is an opportunity for all of us—local leaders, youths, entrepreneurs—to transform our state’s economic landscape,” he added.
Governor Diri took a major step to support Bayelsa’s workforce, announcing a new N80,000 minimum wage for state workers. He described this decision as essential for recognizing the dedication of civil servants and bolstering productivity in the “engine room” of the government. “Our workers are the driving force behind our administration,” Diri explained, noting that this increase aims to inspire loyalty and commitment. The new minimum wage, he said, reflects his administration’s focus on the welfare of state employees as they contribute to Bayelsa’s growth.
Closing his remarks, Governor Diri stressed the importance of unity and collective progress. He encouraged all Bayelsans to rally
