The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Bayelsa State Council, has commended Governor Douye Diri for recent key appointments and ongoing infrastructure projects, while urging urgent action to address persistent power challenges in the state.
In a communiqué issued after its State Congress in Yenagoa, presided over by Council Chairman Tonye Yemoleigha, the union described the appointment of Dr. Peter Akpe as Deputy Governor as a positive development. It said Akpe’s experience in public service would support the administration’s governance agenda.
The NUJ also congratulated Mrs. Josephine Ketebu-Thompson, a union member, on her appointment as Permanent Secretary in the Bayelsa State Civil Service. On infrastructure, the congress acknowledged ongoing road projects in Yenagoa and progress on the Nembe-Brass road. However, it raised concerns over the condition of several internal roads and called for increased maintenance. It urged the Federal Government to commence work on its phase of the Nembe-Brass road project.
The council expressed concern over erratic electricity supply from the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company and called on the state government to fast-track its independent power project.
It also urged improved maintenance of solar streetlights installed under the Niger Delta Development Commission’s “Operation Light Up the Niger Delta” initiative.The union called for peaceful conduct ahead of the 2027 general elections and stronger collaboration among security agencies, INEC and civil society groups.
