On October 3, 2026, Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, paid tribute to former Nigerian Head of State, General Sani Abacha, for his role in creating Bayelsa State on October 1, 1996. Diri expressed gratitude on behalf of the Ijaw nation, stating that Abacha's gesture freed them from oppression and injustice. The governor made these remarks at the Bayelsa at 30 anniversary celebrations, themed 'Celebrating Legacies,' held at the Chief Diepreye Alamieyeseigha Memorial Banquet Hall in Government House, Yenagoa.
The four-day celebrations attracted prominent dignitaries, including former President Goodluck Jonathan, his wife, Dame Patience Jonathan, and members of Abacha's family. A total of 63 recipients received state honors, with top awardees including the late Abacha, Jonathan, Major Isaac Adaka Boro, and former military administrators of the state. The event showcased the state's growth and development since its creation, with Governor Diri highlighting the significance of Abacha's contribution to the Ijaw people.
Diri emphasized that Abacha's creation of Bayelsa State brought a homogeneous Ijaw state, ending the balkanization of the Ijaw people into various states. He noted that while Abacha might have different meanings to different people, to Bayelsans, he was the one who freed them from oppression. The governor also acknowledged Abacha's family, particularly his son, Abba Abacha, and sister, Hajia Fatima Gumsu Abacha, who were present at the event.
The Bayelsa at 30 anniversary celebrations also coincided with Nigeria's 66th independence anniversary. Governor Diri stated that the journey from a state with little infrastructure to one with legacy projects and road networks was a testament to the vision of its founding fathers and God's grace. He expressed gratitude to Abacha, saying that the Ijaw people could not acknowledge and thank him enough for his role in creating Bayelsa State.
During the event, Diri highlighted the state's progress, citing the development of infrastructure and road networks. He attributed this growth to the vision of the state's founding fathers and divine intervention. The governor's remarks underscored the significance of Abacha's contribution to the Ijaw people's liberation and the state's development.
The Bayelsa State government's recognition of Abacha's role in creating the state was not limited to the anniversary celebrations. The state honors awarded to 63 recipients, including top national figures, demonstrated the government's commitment to acknowledging the contributions of notable individuals. The event served as a platform for the state to reflect on its 30-year journey and express gratitude to those who played a significant role in its development.
As Bayelsa State marks its 30th anniversary, Governor Diri's tribute to Abacha serves as a reminder of the state's history and the significance of its creation. The governor's remarks highlight the importance of recognizing the contributions of national figures like Abacha, who played a crucial role in shaping the country's history. The anniversary celebrations provided an opportunity for the state to come together and celebrate its growth and development.
Key points
- Governor Douye Diri credits General Sani Abacha for creating Bayelsa State, freeing Ijaw people from oppression on October 1, 1996.
- Bayelsa State celebrates its 30th anniversary, marking its growth and development since creation.
- The state honors 63 recipients, including top national figures, for their contributions to the state and the country.
