By Peter Omopo
Lagos – Vice President Kashim Shettima, Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, and the University of Lagos (UNILAG) have extolled Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, for his outstanding leadership and transformative investments in education and governance, describing his contribution to knowledge and national development as “exceptional and visionary.”
They gave the commendations on Wednesday at the University of Lagos during the formal Book Presentation, Public Lecture, and Institution of a Professorial Chair on Leadership and Good Governance in honour of Governor Diri.
The event also witnessed the launch of a book titled “Leadership Chronicles of Governor Douye Diri”, edited by Prof. Hope Eghagha and Sola Ojewusi under the UNILAG Consult platform, which documents Diri’s leadership journey, governance philosophy, and impact on Bayelsa’s transformation.
‘Diri’s Leadership is Deliberate, Compassionate, Visionary’ – Shettima
Vice President Shettima, who was represented by Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, praised Diri’s leadership style as “refreshing, deliberate, and deeply attuned to the aspirations of his people.”
Speaking on behalf of both President Bola Tinubu and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Hamzat said Diri’s six-year stewardship in Bayelsa State reflected “a rare blend of compassion and competence,” underscoring his belief in dialogue, inclusiveness, and relentless pursuit of progress.
“This celebration is a testament to your unwavering service, exemplary character, and steadfast commitment to good governance. Bayelsa and indeed Nigeria stand proud of your achievements,” Shettima said.
“Leadership is not about self-aggrandisement but about the lasting impact we forge through lifting our communities, fostering peace, and creating opportunities where none existed.”
He expressed optimism that the newly launched book would serve as an inspiration for emerging leaders across Nigeria to govern with compassion, courage, and purpose.
Mutfwang: ‘When Diri Leaves Office, the Drums Will Still Beat’
Delivering the keynote address, Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, hailed Diri as “a true Nigerian patriot” who embodies the essence of selfless leadership and public service.
He applauded UNILAG and its Vice Chancellor, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, for what he described as “a befitting and prestigious honour” that immortalises Diri’s achievements.
“Governor Diri has demonstrated quality leadership in every facet of development—education, healthcare, security, and power infrastructure. He is an example of how commitment and integrity can transform a people,” Mutfwang said.
“Several people have held leadership positions and been forgotten. But I know that when Governor Diri vacates the scene, the drums will still be beating.”
The Plateau governor also called for unity and cooperation among Bayelsans, the Ijaw nation, and the South-South region to deepen peace and sustainable development.
Ogunsola: ‘UNILAG Honours a Leader Who Invests in Knowledge’
In her remarks, UNILAG Vice Chancellor, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, said the book and the endowed professorial chair were designed to celebrate leadership excellence and promote scholarship in governance and policy.
She noted that the Bayelsa governor’s public life offers valuable lessons in governance, conflict resolution, and the quest for peace and progress in the Niger Delta.
“Governor Diri’s commitment to education and knowledge production is among the most enduring contributions any public servant can make to society,” Ogunsola said.
“The endowed chair aligns with UNILAG’s mission to be a global centre of excellence in education, research, and innovation.”
Diri: ‘This Honour Belongs to Bayelsa’
Responding, Governor Diri expressed deep gratitude to the university community, the editorial team, and the dignitaries who graced the event, describing the recognition as a motivation for greater service.
“This honour is not mine alone—it belongs to the entire people of Bayelsa,” he said. “Public officeholders must be accountable and earn the trust of the people. I am inspired to continue working tirelessly for the peace, unity, and development of our state.”
Diri also pledged to support the newly endowed professorial chair and to continue promoting education and research that will benefit not only Bayelsa but the entire country.
High-Profile Guests and Huge Donations
The event attracted dignitaries from across the political, academic, and corporate spectrum. Among those present were Senator Sunday Katung (Kaduna South), Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John-Jonah (rtd), Dr. Boladei Igali, Chief Victor Egukawhore (Chairman, De Wayles Group), Chief Gesi Asamaowei (CEO, Pelfaco Limited), Mr. Ken Etete (CEO, Century Energy), Ebitimi Amgbare (MD, Niger Delta River Basin Development Authority), and Chief Ndutimi Alaibe, former Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).
Traditional rulers, lawmakers, captains of industry, and Ijaw socio-cultural groups also attended, with huge donations to support the professorial chair and related academic initiatives.
The book was reviewed by veteran journalist and TVC’s Journalists’ Hangout anchor, Mr. Babajide Kolade-Otitoju, who described it as “a timely work that captures the ideals of a leader devoted to people-centred governance.
