News

April 8, 2026

Obuebite hails Diri’s infrastructure strides

UNILAG to honour Gov Diri with Professorial Chair, book launch for exemplary leadership By Prisca Sam-Duru In a major announcement recognizing outstanding public service, the University of Lagos Consultancy Services (UNILAG Consult) has revealed plans to honour Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri. The honour is in recognition of his transparent, inclusive, and visionary leadership style. The triple-event tribute is slated for November 5, 2025, at the University of Lagos Main Auditorium. The ceremony will feature the public presentation of a new book titled: “Leadership Chronicles of Governor Douye Diri,” an International Public Lecture, and the formal launch of a Professorial Chair on Good Governance. The Managing Director and CEO of UNILAG Consult Limited, Professor John Oyefara, who confirmed the initiative on Wednesday during a press briefing, emphasized Governor Diri’s commitment to inclusive governance and the strategic use of technology to advance the health and education sectors. According to Prof Oyefara, the Professorial Chair is designed as an enduring academic legacy dedicated to research, teaching, and policy dialogue that champions the principles of good governance and leadership excellence across Nigeria and Africa. The initiative, he stated further, aims to document and preserve the crucial lessons of transformational leadership for future generations, stressing that integrity, inclusiveness, and accountability form the bedrock of national progress. The forthcoming book he said, will delve into the governor’s political journey, philosophy, and societal impact stressing that, “This Chair will serve as a living academic legacy, dedicated to promoting research, teaching, and policy dialogue on ethics in leadership, transparency, innovation, and people-centred governance.” He added, “The triple event is designed to celebrate and institutionalise the leadership ethos and accomplishments of governor Diri, a man whose governance style exemplifies vision, inclusiveness, and integrity. His commitment to technology-driven governance, democratic values, and national unity stands as a model for both current and aspiring leaders.” Distinguished Professor of English at UNILAG and the book’s General Editor, Professor Hope Eghagha, also highlighted that the event speaks eloquently of the University’s mission to bridge the gap between academia, policy, and practical leadership so as to strengthen democratic governance in the continent. Prof Eghagha commended governor Diri’s focus on driving quality healthcare in the state with technology, infrastructure, youth empowerment, and education, which he maintained has positioned Bayelsa State as a model of inclusive governance in the Niger Delta. Project consultant Sola Ojewusi further highlighted the Governor’s significant achievements, particularly in healthcare. Ojewusi cited the innovative use of drones for drug delivery to remote parts of Bayelsa, a strategy that has reportedly saved lives and ensured rapid medical access for the citizenry in critical situations. The event is set to host several national and international dignitaries, members of the academia, policymakers, and the diplomatic community to discuss the future landscape of governance in Africa.

Gov Diri

..Seeks Massive Turnout for Tinubu’s Visit

By Samuel Oyadongha, Yenagoa

The leader of the Wind Dynasty political family and two-time commissioner in Bayelsa State, Hon. Jonathan Obuebite, has lauded Governor Douye Diri for his outstanding infrastructural achievements across the state.

Obuebite, in a statement, described the forthcoming commissioning of major projects by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as a defining moment in Bayelsa’s development journey.

He identified the 60-megawatt gas turbine power project, the 630-metre Angiama-Oporoma Bridge, the New Yenagoa City–Gbarantoru Road, and the 42-kilometre Sagbama–Ekeremor Road as legacy projects reflecting the governor’s resolve to turn bold visions into reality.

The former lawmaker and Special Adviser to the Bayelsa State Governor on SMEs noted that these projects will stimulate economic growth, attract investments, and position Bayelsa as an emerging centre for development.

Highlighting the gas turbine project, Obuebite described it as a game-changer that will enhance industrialisation and support sustainable economic advancement.

On the 630-metre Angiama-Oporoma Bridge, he stated that it finally addresses over six decades of inaccessibility faced by the people of Southern Ijaw, unlocking new opportunities for trade, movement, and connectivity.

He further emphasised that the ongoing road projects cutting across all senatorial districts and local government areas align with Governor Diri’s vision of connecting Bayelsa to the wider world, a promise that is steadily being fulfilled.

Obuebite commended the governor’s foresight, commitment, and passion for development, noting that the impact of his administration is evident from urban centres to rural communities.

He urged Bayelsans to come out in large numbers to welcome President Tinubu and demonstrate support for the governor during the commissioning ceremony.

“This is a historic and symbolic moment for our state. I encourage all Bayelsans to turn out en masse to receive the President and celebrate these landmark achievements that will define our future,” he said.

“Today, the Governor is rewriting our history in a positive direction. Bayelsa is now among the comity of states—going beyond boosting investor confidence to setting the pace for economic growth and sustainable investment,” Obuebite added.