The Bayelsa State Government has announced plans to inaugurate key infrastructure projects this April, including its independent power project, a major bridge, and a dual carriage road, in a move aimed at boosting development across the state.
Governor Douye Diri disclosed this on Tuesday during the March edition of the monthly Praise Night at the King of Glory Chapel, Government House, Yenagoa.
He revealed that the 60-megawatt gas-fired turbine power plant located in Elebele community, Ogbia Local Government Area, is nearing completion and will be inaugurated by President Bola Tinubu after undergoing a test run.
According to the governor, the project, now about 99 per cent completed, is expected to significantly enhance socio-economic activities and stimulate industrial growth in the state.
“For 30 years, there has not been steady power supply in our state,” Diri said, noting that the new plant’s output would exceed the current supply from the national grid, which he put at about 24 megawatts.
He added that electricity from the plant would be distributed through a pay-as-you-go metering system to eliminate estimated billing and ensure sustainability.
“Small and medium-scale enterprises will thrive when we have 24-hour electricity supply. But consumers must be ready to pay, as the government will bear the cost of gas supply,” he said.
In addition to the power project, the governor announced that the 630-metre Angiama-Oporoma bridge across the River Nun in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area is ready for commissioning. He described it as the longest bridge in the state and a critical component of the ongoing road network linking communities to Agge.
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Diri also disclosed that a newly constructed dual carriage road connecting the New Yenagoa City to the NLNG Road at Obunagha axis will be inaugurated. The road is expected to serve as an alternative route to ease traffic on the Yenagoa-Mbiama corridor.
He further noted that work on the Nembe-Brass road project is progressing, with its first phase scheduled for completion by the end of 2026.
While urging residents to remain patient and supportive, the governor also called on political actors in the state to maintain peace and civility as political activities gather momentum nationwide.
“Whether you are in government or in the opposition, let us keep the peace. Bayelsa is blessed with unity and security, and we must preserve it,” he said.
The projects are widely seen as part of the state government’s efforts to improve infrastructure, enhance connectivity, and provide reliable power supply to drive economic growth.