Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri has stated that the state has made significant progress in overcoming its terrain challenges since its creation 30 years ago. Speaking at an exhibition and anniversary lecture marking the state's 30th anniversary, Diri said that the state has recorded substantial transformation in infrastructure, connectivity, and human development. He noted that the state was created on October 1, 1996, with difficult terrain, limited infrastructure, poor connectivity, and a fragile economic base.
According to Diri, the state has made remarkable progress in infrastructure development, including the construction of roads and bridges that have connected communities previously separated by creeks. The governor also mentioned the development of an international airport, the establishment of universities and other institutions, and the expansion of the state's federal presence with facilities such as the Content Towers, Federal Secretariat, Nigerian Law School, and various security formations.
Diri acknowledged the contributions of successive administrations to the development of the state, stressing that the progress recorded over the past three decades was a continuum built on the efforts and sacrifices of previous leaders and citizens. He also highlighted ongoing projects, including the renovation of the state's senatorial roads, the expansion of the Independent Power Project from 60 to 100 megawatts, and the construction of the 30,000-capacity stadium and the nine-storey Secretariat Complex.
However, Diri emphasized that the 30th anniversary should go beyond celebrating past achievements, stressing the need to build stronger institutions, create opportunities for youths and women, protect the environment, and ensure balanced development across the state. He challenged Bayelsans to transform the sacrifices of the state's founding fathers into a foundation for a more prosperous and united future.
Renowned scholar and public intellectual, Prof Godini Darah, who delivered the anniversary lecture, stated that Nigeria's dependence on oil and gas had constrained the country's economic development. Darah noted that the nation's over-reliance on petroleum resources had prevented it from fully developing other productive sectors of the economy.
Darah called for fundamental reforms to Nigeria's fiscal federalism and greater resource control for producing regions. He also challenged Niger Delta leaders to move beyond dependence on crude oil by investing in knowledge, science, technology, research, and value-added industries. The scholar emphasized the need for diversification of the economy to ensure sustainable development.
The 30th anniversary celebration of Bayelsa State is a significant milestone, marking three decades of progress and development. As the state looks to the future, it is clear that there are still challenges to be addressed, but the state's leaders and citizens are committed to building a more prosperous and united future. The celebration serves as a testament to the resilience and determination of the people of Bayelsa State.
Key points
- Bayelsa State has made significant progress in infrastructure development, including the construction of roads, bridges, and an international airport.
- The state's over-reliance on oil and gas has constrained its economic development, according to renowned scholar Prof Godini Darah.
- The state is committed to building stronger institutions, creating opportunities for youths and women, protecting the environment, and ensuring balanced development across the state.
