Kumo Amgbare
The Bayelsa State Government has reiterated its commitment to collaborating with credible socio-cultural and community organizations to accelerate development in the education and health sectors.
Deputy Governor Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo made the pledge on Wednesday while receiving a delegation from the Kumbowei National Association (KNA), Bayelsa State Chapter, on a courtesy visit at Government House, Yenagoa.
In a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Media, Mr Doubara Atasi, Senator Ewhrudjakpo described socio-cultural groups as critical partners in complementing government efforts to deliver essential services and improve the quality of life for citizens.
“Government alone cannot meet all the socio-economic needs of the people. We are therefore open and ready to partner with serious-minded organizations that have clear developmental objectives,” he said.
The Deputy Governor specifically commended the KNA for proposing an Educational Scholarship Trust Fund and a Community Health Outreach programme, assuring the association of the state government’s support.
He, however, urged the group to submit a detailed proposal for its forthcoming 2025 Kumbowei Heritage and Development Summit and to rotate hosting of the event among member communities to promote unity and cultural integration.
“We want you to take your education endowment fund and health programmes very seriously. Such initiatives strengthen culture, community cohesion, mentorship, and entrepreneurial skills among our youths,” Senator Ewhrudjakpo added.
Earlier, the National President of the KNA, Prof. Peter Ayunku, a Professor of Banking and Finance at Niger Delta University, briefed the Deputy Governor on the association’s objectives and sought government backing for the summit scheduled for later this month.
Prof. Ayunku said the event would showcase the rich cultural heritage of the Kumbowei people while providing a platform for elders and youths to engage in mentorship and development-focused dialogue.
He praised the administration of Governor Douye Diri for its openness to partnerships with community and youth organizations, noting that such collaboration has fostered peace, economic empowerment, and cultural preservation in the state.
The delegation included the Commissioner for Special Duties (Bayelsa West), Mr Michael Magbisa; Chairman of Sagbama Rural Development Authority, Chief Fred Dabirilagha; the Amananaowei of Sagbama Town, HRH Ojo Magbisa; and the Amananaowei of Tungbabiri Community, HRH Godbless Fetonbofa, among other prominent Kumbowei indigenes.
