Senator Douye Diri, the Bayelsa State governor is a study in leadership and good governance, and this is according to Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, his Lagos State counterpart, Babajide Sanwa-Olu and Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola.
Apart from Diri’s leadership mien, they also acknowledged the positive impact of the reforms introduced by the governor in Bayelsa State. These happened at the formal book presentation/launch, public lecture and institution of a professorial chair on leadership and good governance in honour of the governor, at the University of Lagos.
For example, Shettima, who was represented by the deputy governor of Lagos State, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, said the book captured the spirit of Diri’s leadership style, which he said was “refreshing, deliberate and deeply attuned to the oaths and aspirations of his people.”
Hamzat, who also spoke on behalf of the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, noted that Diri’s stewardship in Bayelsa in about six years had been characterised by a rare blend of compassion and competence and demonstrated that meaningful progress could be achieved through dialogue, inclusiveness and relentless effort.
He said “l congratulate Governor Douye Diri on this well-earned honour. This celebration is a testament to your unwavering service, exemplary character and steadfastness to the principles of good governance. Bayelsa and Nigeria stand proud of your achievements and the inspiring values you uphold.
“This book captures the spirit of his leadership, core values and courage that define his path. It reminds us that leadership is not about self- aggrandizement but about the lasting impact we forge through lifting our communities and fostering peace and creating opportunities where none existed. It is more than a tribute in leadership transformation that he brings to the lives of his people.”
The keynote speaker and Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang, described Diri as a great Nigerian, who has demonstrated in spirit and in letter the essence of leadership and congratulated the Vice Chancellor and UNILAG Consult for documenting Diri’s achievements, which he described as a befitting and prestigious honour.
According to him, the Bayelsa governor has demonstrated quality leadership in virtually every facet of development, particularly in areas of education, healthcare delivery, security and the ongoing effort to light up the state through its independent power project.
He equally stressed the need for Bayelsans, the Ijaw nation and the South South to unite and foster peace and development in the region.
“Several people have had the opportunity to be in leadership and have been forgotten. But l know that when Governor Diri vacates the scene, the drums will still be beating.”
In her remarks, the Vice Chancellor, Prof Folasade Ogunsola, said the book provided an opportunity to examine ideas, experiences and reflections of a leader serving in one of Nigeria’s most complex and dynamic regions.
She noted that the Bayelsa governor’s public life offered valuable insights into governance, conflict management and search for peace and development in the Niger Delta.
Ogunsola said the professorial chair in honour of Diri aligned with the institution’s mission to be a global centre of excellence in education, research and innovation, while also commending Diri for investing in knowledge as it was one of the most enduring contributions any public servant can make to society.
Responding, Diri said the honour would spur him and his team to work harder in service of the state, noting that the recognition was not only for him but was for the entire Bayelsa, and expressed appreciation to the VC, the institution’s management and the editorial team for acknowledging and compiling his administration’s achievements.
“Those in positions of authority must be accountable to the people and earn their trust without which confidence in governance will inevitably wane. It is in that spirit that l accept this book, which seeks to honour not only me but the entirety of Bayelsa State.
“I accept to support the professorial chair and encourage scholarship that would be beneficial not only to Bayelsa State but also to Nigeria.”
