Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has called for more TETFund allocations to support higher education in the state. On Friday, October 18, 2024 Diri made the appeal while receiving the Chairman and members of the House of Representatives Committee on Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) at Government House, Yenagoa.
The governor praised the federal government’s efforts through TETFund and expressed gratitude to the House of Representatives for their visit to assess how allocated funds have been utilized in Bayelsa’s higher institutions. However, Diri also emphasized the need for additional funding, stressing that education remains a top priority for his administration.
“It gives me great joy to welcome this very important committee to our state today,” Diri said. “Please convey our appreciation to the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the management of TETFund. In Bayelsa, all the funds allocated to our higher institutions have been effectively utilized, but we are expecting more. Our institutions need continuous support to maintain the pace of development.”
The governor reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to working closely with the federal government to improve education. He highlighted the critical role of TETFund in driving development across academic institutions in Bayelsa, stating that ongoing projects have already had a positive impact on infrastructure and learning environments.
Hon. Miriam Odinaka Onuoha, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on TETFund, commended Bayelsa State for making efficient use of TETFund allocations. Onuoha noted that the committee's visit aimed to assess compliance with TETFund guidelines and to ensure that funds were being used appropriately.
“We are pleased to see the level of compliance and judicious use of TETFund allocations in Bayelsa State. Projects funded by TETFund are visible across all higher institutions here, and we commend the governor for his developmental strides,” she remarked.
Hon. Onuoha also acknowledged the infrastructural progress under Governor Diri’s leadership and encouraged the state to maintain the momentum in driving educational development.
The meeting was attended by several top government officials and lawmakers, reflecting the importance of the visit. Notable attendees included Deputy Governor Senator Lawrence Ewhrujakpo; Hon. Bappa Misau, Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on TETFund; and Hon. Rodney Ambaiowei.
Other dignitaries present were Hon. Charles Daniel, Chairman of the State Assembly Committee on Education; Prof. Nimobofa Ayawei, Secretary to the State Government; Dr. Peter Akpe, Chief of Staff, and representatives from TETFund. Commissioners and other top government officials were also in attendance.
