Amgbare Ekaunkumo, Yenagoa
Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, has called for a collaborative governance model to address the severe threats of ocean surge and coastal erosion impacting communities in Bayelsa and the Niger Delta.
Speaking at the Ocean Rise and Coastal Resilience Summit, held ahead of the United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) from June 9-13 in Nice, France, Diri emphasized the need for unified action among global, national, and local stakeholders.
In his presentation during the panel session themed “Multi-Level Governance of Coastal Cities and Regions” at the summit, co-hosted by France and Costa Rica, Diri highlighted Bayelsa’s vulnerability, with 70% of its landmass covered by rivers and its borders along the Atlantic Ocean.
He stressed that collaborative governance is critical to tackling climate change, global warming, and rising sea levels.
Diri outlined his administration’s initiatives, including the establishment of Nigeria’s first sub-national Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy in 2024, following a federal model.
He also noted efforts to restore mangroves, essential for ecological stability, and called for global funding to support at-risk regions. “We need synergy, not competition, to protect our communities,” Diri said.
The summit drew global leaders, including former U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry, alongside scientists and policymakers, to discuss rising sea levels, climate adaptation, and sustainable development.
Diri was joined by Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno, delegates from Lagos and Cross River states, and Bayelsa officials, including Speaker Abraham Ingobere and Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Faith Zibs-Godwin.
Diri further advocated for increased international support, including access to climate funds, to bolster local efforts in vulnerable regions like Bayelsa.
He emphasized that coordinated policies and shared expertise could drive sustainable solutions, ensuring coastal communities are not only protected but also empowered to thrive amidst growing environmental challenges.
His presence at the summit underscored Bayelsa’s proactive stance in seeking global partnerships to address these pressing issues.
