Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri on Monday undertook a mental tour of what transpired in the state in the recent past and said the people would have been swallowed by enemies of the state if God did not intervene.
In an apparent reference to the recently concluded election in the state in which he won against the candidate of the APC, the governor said “indeed, if it was not for the Lord who was on our side, we would have been swallowed up when men rose against us.
“Therefore, in the words of the hymn writer, “Let us, with a gladsome mind, praise the LORD, for He is kind: for His mercies shall endure, ever faithful, ever sure” and with one accord, give worship to our all-merciful and benevolent Heavenly Father for the gift of life, the blessing of this fresh beginning and the hope it presents of greater and better things.”
He used the opportunity of the New Year message to take stock of how he has served the people in the last four years and also informed them of what to expect, as he takes a second and final oath of office next month.
He said: “The education sector has witnessed remarkable improvements, with the construction and renovation of schools, with emphasis on technical, science and vocational institutions and the recruitment of competent teachers. We are also working to improve the standards of our tertiary establishments so our graduates will be coveted across the world. Our commitment to providing quality education remains steadfast, as we believe that investing in future of our children is investing in the sustainable prosperity of our state.
“In healthcare, we have made tremendous strides in improving access to quality and affordable healthcare services for all citizens. The completion of several primary healthcare centers, equipping them with necessary medical supplies and staff, has ensured that our people can receive quality care close to their homes. The deployment of drone technology for the delivery of health consumables, in partnership with the globally-known Zipline Drone Delivery & Logistics, is a significant breakthrough in this regard.
“Our government remains committed to sustainable agricultural practices and the empowerment of our farmers. Various agricultural initiatives have been implemented to improve food security and increase the income and productivity of our farmers. By training agro-preneurs to embrace modern farming techniques and providing necessary support, we hope to create a thriving agricultural sector that can meet the needs of our growing population and contribute significantly to our state’s revenue. Going forward, we will focus on improving agricultural productivity and supporting our farmers with modern techniques and resources to boost food production and enhance our food security.”
He added: “On February 14, I will be taking the oath of office for the second time, by the grace of God and the overwhelming desire of the people of Bayelsa State as expressed in your votes on November 11, 2023. On behalf of the hardworking Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, I thank you for renewing our mandate.
“I must, however, emphasize the importance of unity among us. Let us put aside our differences and work hand in hand to build a prosperous and harmonious Bayelsa State. We will actively engage our communities irrespective of our political choices or party divide, listening to their needs and aspirations, and working together to address challenges and create a brighter future for all.
“Our expectations for a more prosperous and productive 2024 is rooted in our carefully crafted Budget of Sustainable and Shared Prosperity. You may remember that I initially presented a budget proposal of N480,993,632,369.00 to the House. However, the House of Assembly made a revision to N489,443,632,374.00, resulting in a difference of N8,450,000,000.00. This additional funding will be allocated towards the construction of an ultra-modern stadium, an ultra-modern Renal Centre at the Niger Delta University Teaching Hospital in Okolobiri, the construction of an Administrative Block for the Primary Health Care Board, and other necessary expenditure.
“Our move towards industrialising the state has taken a giant leap with my assent to the Bayelsa State Electricity Law, 2023. This promises to be a game changer for our power supply, with critical implications for our industrialisation programme. Bayelsa State used to generate and distribute its own electricity until 2006. However, national regulations prevented the state from commercializing this sector. Recent constitutional amendments and the Electricity Act, 2023, now empower states to commercialize and establish market regulations.
“The State Electricity Law has thus been introduced to create a regulatory framework that addresses barriers hindering the efficient operation of the State Electricity Market System. The law aims to issue licenses to private investors, collaborate with existing franchises to expand electricity access in underserved areas, and enforce penalties for non-compliance.”
He urged Bayelsa people to continue to live in love and in the quest to promote development. “As we begin this new year, let it be one of progress, hope, love and fulfilment. I am confident that with the collective effort and unwavering support of the people of Bayelsa State, we will achieve our shared vision of a prosperous and inclusive society.”
