Former President Goodluck Jonathan marked the 30th anniversary of Bayelsa State's creation by celebrating the state's tremendous progress and urging residents to work towards achieving greater development. He made these remarks at a dinner and award ceremony organized as part of the anniversary activities. Jonathan, who was among the personalities honored at the event, acknowledged that although the state had yet to attain its desired destination, its creation had given the people a distinct political identity and a homeland they could call their own.
Bayelsa State was created on October 1, 1996, by then Head of State, General Sani Abacha, alongside Ebonyi and Ekiti states. Jonathan recalled that the creation of the state was significant as it gave the people a distinct identity and provided them with a state they could call their own. He emphasized that the state's creation had given young Bayelsans a sense of belonging and a home to identify with.
Jonathan urged young Bayelsans not to conclude that there was nothing to celebrate about the state, stressing that continued development depended on visionary leadership and proper planning. He recalled an initiative during his tenure as governor in 2006, when secondary school students were asked to write essays projecting what they wanted Bayelsa to become in 25 years. The exercise produced "beautiful essays" and demonstrated the importance of giving young people the opportunity to articulate their vision for the state.
The former President congratulated the state government and the anniversary committee for recognizing individuals who had contributed to the development of Bayelsa. He noted that selecting people for awards could be difficult, recalling his experiences in selecting Nigerians for national honors during the 50th anniversary of Nigeria's independence and the centenary celebration of the amalgamation. Jonathan commended the organizers for recognizing individuals who had contributed to the development of the state and society at large.
Jonathan dedicated his award to his former boss and friend, the late Chief DSP Alamieyeseigha, whom he credited with giving him the opportunity to begin his political career as deputy governor. He expressed gratitude to Governor Douye Diri, his wife, the Deputy Governor, diplomats, ambassadors, and other dignitaries who attended the anniversary dinner. Jonathan emphasized that the celebration should remind the people of the contributions of past leaders and citizens to the state while inspiring current and future generations to contribute to its continued development.
The dinner and award ceremony was part of the activities marking the 30th anniversary of Bayelsa State's creation. The event brought together dignitaries from across the country, including former President Jonathan, Governor Douye Diri, and other notable personalities. The ceremony recognized individuals who had made significant contributions to the development of the state.
In his remarks, Jonathan expressed optimism that with visionary leadership and proper planning, Bayelsa State would continue to make progress and achieve its desired destination. He encouraged residents to appreciate the progress recorded so far while working towards greater development. The event concluded with a call to action for residents to work together to build a brighter future for Bayelsa State.
Key points
- Former President Goodluck Jonathan urges Bayelsans to appreciate progress while working towards greater development.
- Bayelsa State was created on October 1, 1996, by General Sani Abacha.
- Jonathan dedicates award to late Chief DSP Alamieyeseigha.
