Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri on Saturday marked six years in office with a thanksgiving service at the Ecumenical Centre in Igbogene, attributing his administration’s achievements to divine guidance and public support.
The anniversary was observed quietly in honour of the late Deputy Governor, Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, who died on December 11, 2025. During the service, Diri paid tribute to his former deputy, recalling their joint inauguration in 2020.
Addressing congregants, the governor thanked residents, the state legislature and judiciary for their cooperation, which he said contributed to progress recorded across sectors. He cited ongoing road construction projects aimed at improving access to hinterland communities and boosting economic activity. Diri also called for unity and reconciliation, urging citizens to harness the state’s oil, gas and other resources for collective development.
Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri, described Diri’s emergence as governor as divinely ordained. Similarly, Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, commended the administration for promoting political stability in the state.
Other dignitaries at the event included former First Lady Patience Jonathan, members of the National Assembly and state officials.
In his sermon, Pastor Daddy-Ken Bitere urged leaders to acknowledge God as the source of success and prayed for continued peace and progress in Bayelsa State.
