By BANNERNEWS Reporter
Douye Diri, Governor of Bayelsa State, on Saturday marked six years in office with a thanksgiving service and called on citizens to remain united and work collectively for the state’s progress.
The service, held at the Ecumenical Centre in Igbogene, Yenagoa, drew political leaders, government officials, clerics and supporters who gathered to celebrate the administration’s milestones since he assumed office on February 14, 2020.
Addressing the congregation, Diri urged Bayelsans to speak with one voice and harness the state’s abundant human and natural resources for the common good. He also prayed that God would raise an even more capable and God-fearing leader to succeed him at the end of his tenure.
Diri, who won both his first and second terms on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party before later joining the All Progressives Congress, said his emergence and leadership journey were guided by divine purpose. He noted that his administration had focused on changing the narrative of Bayelsa’s difficult terrain by constructing roads and opening up previously inaccessible communities.
“All we need to do is unite and harness the resources that abound in our state for our collective benefit,” he said. “Bayelsa is blessed with oil, gas and much more. We are building roads to connect our hinterland and awarding more contracts to advance development.”
The governor, who personally read the Bible lesson from Psalm 23:1–6, expressed appreciation to the people of the state and other arms of government for their support and cooperation. He urged citizens to continue promoting tolerance, reconciliation and peaceful coexistence.
In his goodwill message, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri, described Diri’s emergence as governor as a “miracle” and a manifestation of divine will. He said no individual could claim credit for Diri’s rise, stressing that leadership ultimately comes from God.
Similarly, Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, Samuel Ogbuku, congratulated the governor and his cabinet, commending the administration for fostering peace and creating an enabling environment for development initiatives across the state.
Delivering the sermon, Lead Pastor of The Refined People’s Assembly, Daddy-Ken Bitere, emphasised God’s faithfulness and urged leaders and citizens alike to acknowledge divine guidance in governance. He prayed for continued wisdom and strength for the governor in
