Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, has described the procurement of a 60-megawatt gas turbine by his administration as a landmark achievement as the state marked its 29th anniversary on October 1, 2025.
In a statewide broadcast to commemorate both Nigeria’s 65th Independence and Bayelsa’s statehood anniversary, Governor Diri said the arrival of the gas turbine signaled a future of reliable, round-the-clock power supply in the state, with the potential to reduce household expenses, attract investment, create jobs, and boost economic growth.
“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,” he said.
The governor, while congratulating President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nigerians on the independence celebration, noted that Bayelsa was recording steady progress under his Prosperity Administration.
He highlighted ongoing landmark projects, including the nine-storey state secretariat complex, which he said would provide modern, efficient administrative offices for civil servants, and the construction of a 25,000-capacity Olympic-standard stadium aimed at fostering youth development and showcasing Bayelsa on the national and international stage.
On education, Diri said Bayelsa had made significant strides, pointing to improved student performance in national examinations. He added that technical and vocational education was being strengthened through the establishment of colleges in every local government area.
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“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 functional, while others in Brass, Igbeta-Ewoma and Oporoma are nearing completion,” he said.
Reflecting on the state’s journey since its creation, the governor urged Bayelsans to embrace unity, resilience, and hard work, stressing that self-determination remains a cause for celebration.
“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,” he said.
Governor Diri maintained that the story of Bayelsa was on an upward trajectory and called on citizens to remain hopeful and grateful as the state continued to progress.