By Sola Ojewusi
Governor lists new Secretariat, Stadium, Education Reforms as State turns 29
YENAGOA — Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has declared that the arrival of a 60-megawatt gas turbine procured by his administration represents “a major milestone” in the state’s quest for uninterrupted electricity supply, describing it as a gift to Bayelsans as the state celebrated its 29th anniversary on October 1, 2025.
The governor made this known in a statewide broadcast on the twin occasion of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day and Bayelsa’s 29th statehood anniversary.
According to a press statement issued by Daniel Alabrah, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Diri said: “The recent arrival of the 60-megawatt gas turbines marks a major milestone and brings us much closer to reliable, round-the-clock power in our state. That development will reduce household expenses, attract investment, create jobs and stimulate economic growth.”
Landmark Projects Underway
Governor Diri stressed that his “Prosperity Administration” was steadily pushing forward with landmark projects that would transform Bayelsa’s socio-economic landscape. These include:
The nine-storey State Secretariat Complex — “advancing steadily” and designed to provide modern, efficient administrative space for civil servants.
The 25,000-capacity Olympic-standard stadium — envisioned to “foster sports and youth development” and position Bayelsa as a national and international sporting hub.
Education on the Rise
Diri further highlighted progress in the education sector, noting Bayelsa’s improved performance in national examinations. “Our schools are improving. Recent NECO results have shown strong performances by our students, with Bayelsa among the top five states in Nigeria. To deepen pragmatic education, we have established science, technical and vocational colleges in every local government area. The ones at Ayamasa, Ofoni, Swali, Sampou and Opume are completed and functional, while others in Brass, Igbeta-Ewoma and Oporoma are nearing completion,” the governor said.
A Call for Unity and Reflection
While congratulating President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Nigerians, and Bayelsans on the anniversary celebrations, Diri urged his people to reflect on their journey and recommit themselves to unity, sacrifice, and hard work.
“The road has not always been smooth. Some ask why we continue to commemorate this day. The answer is simple: self-determination matters. As Bayelsans, we have spent almost three decades making our own decisions, setting our own course and running our own race. That capacity is a cause for celebration and a responsibility we must discharge with wisdom and humility.”
The Bayelsa Story at 29
Carved out of Rivers State in 1996, Bayelsa has weathered challenges and grown into what Governor Diri described as a “homogeneous Ijaw state whose narrative is now on the upswing.”
The statement emphasized Governor Diri’s belief that there is “much to be grateful for and much to hope for” as Bayelsa charts its future.
