The Bayelsa State Executive Council recently held a moment of silence to honor four of its citizens who lost their lives in the ill-fated Nigeria Air Force plane that crashed on Monday in Ondo State. The victims from Bayelsa were identified as Flight Lieutenant Tarila Lazarus, Sergeant Izibenikien Samuel, Sergeant Ebimobowei Charles Alafuka, and Godstime Tarabina.
The Nigeria Air Force stated that 25 of its personnel lost their lives in the tragic incident. Governor Diri, presiding over the 198th session of the meeting in the Executive Council Chambers in Government House, Yenagoa, expressed his grief on behalf of the government and people of the state. He mentioned that he had earlier sent a condolence message to President Bola Tinubu, the Chief of the Air Staff, and the families of the victims.
As directed by President Bola Tinubu, flags in Bayelsa State are currently flying at half-mast. The state government plans to work with relevant authorities to take steps to alleviate the pain of the victims' families. The governor also appreciated the people of Bayelsa for their active participation in the state's 30th anniversary celebrations, which demonstrated their love for the state and willingness to contribute to its development.
The 30th anniversary of Bayelsa State was marked with various activities that saw a massive turnout of Bayelsans, diplomats, federal agencies, and other guests. The governor thanked the committee led by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Peter Akpe, and government officials for their contributions to the success of the celebrations. He emphasized that the anniversary was an opportunity for Bayelsans to reflect on the state's journey and project its future.
Governor Diri urged the people of Bayelsa to maintain the spirit of love, unity, and oneness demonstrated during the anniversary. He stressed that a state could only achieve greater development when its people work together. The governor also called on politicians and their supporters to conduct issue-based and civil campaigns, focusing on their records and policies rather than insults and inflammatory language.
The governor announced plans to prepare a short and long-term development plan for Bayelsa State before the end of his tenure. This plan aims to provide a framework for future administrations and ensure continuity in the state's development. He emphasized that development should not be tied to one administration but approached as a collective responsibility requiring long-term planning.
Governor Diri received two awards for his performance in the welfare of state counsel and his support for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The awards were presented by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, and his Trade, Industry and Investment counterpart. The governor stated that the recognition would encourage his administration to continue its efforts, motivated by the appreciation of stakeholders.
Key points
- The Bayelsa State government observed a minute of silence to honor the four victims of the NAF plane crash.
- The state government will work with relevant authorities to alleviate the pain of the victims' families.
- Governor Diri received two awards for his performance in the welfare of state counsel and support for MSMEs.
