Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, has reiterated his administration's commitment to transforming Yenagoa, the state capital, into a modern city through its urban renewal programme.
Addressing members of the State Executive Council during a meeting at Government House, Yenagoa, on Wednesday, Governor Diri highlighted the recent relocation of inter-state commercial transporters to the newly constructed state-owned transport terminal in Igbogene as a significant step towards achieving this vision.
He explained that centralized motor parks are hallmarks of modern cities and emphasized that the initiative would not only enhance Yenagoa's aesthetics but also bolster security.
According to him, the new terminal enables better monitoring of passengers entering the state and reduces the risk of criminal activities.
"I visited the new terminal and was impressed by its beauty. This is what modern societies look like," the governor said. "For those who criticize without understanding progress, I feel sorry for them. Bayelsans, however, are pleased with what we have done."
He further stressed the need for orderliness at the facility, warning against touting in and around the terminal. "Nobody should act like a tout in that place. It is a modern park with all necessary facilities provided. We want Yenagoa to be a city we can all be proud of," he stated.
Governor Diri also commended the peaceful atmosphere that prevailed during the Yuletide season, attributing it to the collaborative efforts of security agencies. He noted the boost in tourism and entertainment during the period and praised dancehall star Enetimi Odon, popularly known as Timaya, for his annual Timaya Day concert on January 1, which drew large crowds and showcased the state's tourism potential.
Reflecting on the event, he remarked, "The Timaya Day concert attracted mostly youths, and their conduct was exemplary. From what I witnessed, there is hope for the future of our state and country."
On an isolated violent incident in Agbere, Sagbama Local Government Area, the governor expressed gratitude to the community leaders for maintaining peace and assured that investigations into the murder of a local chief were underway.
"Our state is on the path of transformation, and we must all play our part in ensuring progress and stability," Governor Diri concluded.
