Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, has identified road infrastructure, electricity and job opportunities for young people as key priorities requiring sustained attention as the state marks its 30th anniversary.
Diri stated this on Thursday in a broadcast marking the 30th anniversary of Bayelsa’s creation and Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.
The governor paid tribute to the founding fathers of the state, saying their sacrifices placed a responsibility on the present generation to build a better Bayelsa.
He said the state had recorded significant progress since its creation in 1996, but noted that more needed to be done to fulfil the aspirations of those who fought for its establishment.
Diri said his administration was consolidating on the foundations laid by previous governments through investments in education, healthcare, infrastructure, power and human capital development.
He disclosed that work was ongoing on the three senatorial roads, while the state’s Independent Power Project was being expanded from 60 megawatts to 100 megawatts.
The governor also said construction was progressing on a 30,000-capacity stadium and a nine-storey state secretariat complex.
Diri recalled that at the creation of Bayelsa, only the headquarters of Sagbama, Kolokuma/Opokuma, Ogbia and Yenagoa were accessible by road.
He said subsequent road projects had connected the headquarters of Southern Ijaw, Ekeremor and Nembe to Yenagoa, reducing travel time and improving economic activities and security.
The governor also highlighted the potential of the state’s blue economy, saying his administration was investing in aquaculture, agriculture and other sectors capable of creating employment.
He announced plans to introduce underwater welding into the curriculum of technical colleges and higher institutions to equip young people with skills for the emerging blue economy.
Diri also said the state was working with the Federal Government on the development of deep seaports and other maritime infrastructure.
He urged Bayelsans, particularly youths, to acquire relevant skills and explore opportunities beyond traditional white-collar employment.
The governor said Bayelsa’s future economic opportunities extended beyond oil and gas to agriculture, maritime activities and other sectors.
He urged residents to use the 30th anniversary to reflect on the state’s achievements while focusing on the work required to build its future.
