YENAGOA, BAYELSA STATE — The Secretary to the Bayelsa State Government (SSG), Professor Nimibofa Ayawei, has called for renewed collective commitment to peace, unity, justice, inclusiveness and sustainable development as the state marks its 30th anniversary.
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Professor Ayawei made the call on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, while delivering the welcome address at the anniversary lecture held at the Chief D.S.P. Alamieyeseigha Memorial Banquet Hall, Ovom, Yenagoa, as part of activities marking three decades of Bayelsa State’s creation.
The SSG described the anniversary as more than a commemoration of the date Bayelsa was created, saying it provided an opportunity to reflect on the state’s journey, celebrate achievements, acknowledge challenges overcome and renew the collective resolve to build a better future.
“Today is more than a commemoration of a date in our history. It is an opportunity to reflect on our journey as a people, celebrate the progress we have made, acknowledge the challenges we have surmounted, and renew our collective commitment to building a state that future generations will be proud to inherit,” Ayawei said.
He noted that the aspirations for self-determination within Nigeria’s federal system had continued to guide successive administrations in their efforts to improve the lives of communities across the state.
According to him, the impact of those aspirations is reflected in developments in infrastructure, human capital development, economic empowerment and the general quality of life of Bayelsans.
Ayawei cited the state’s expanding transportation infrastructure and energy development as examples of the transformation recorded over the past 30 years.
“A few minutes away is our international airport, serviced by our own airline in competition with others, and a modern dualised highway all the way to this venue,” he stated.
The SSG also highlighted the availability of round-the-clock electricity in parts of Yenagoa and its environs, attributing the development to the state’s newly commissioned 60-megawatt gas turbine.
“And in most parts of the Yenagoa metropolis and environs, it’s 24/7 power supply from our newly commissioned 60-megawatt gas turbine. This is indeed the magic of the times,” he said.
Professor Ayawei further observed that the presence of distinguished guests who travelled from cities such as Lagos and Abuja and arrived in Yenagoa in time for the anniversary programme demonstrated the improvements in connectivity and accessibility to the state.
The anniversary programme featured goodwill messages, cultural performances by the Bayelsa State Council for Arts and Culture, the anniversary lecture and panel discussions.
The occasion also provided the platform for the unveiling of the anniversary publication, Bayelsa at 30: The History of its Founding and Progress, documenting the state’s journey since its creation.
The SSG announced that the Special Guest of Honour, former President of Nigeria, His Excellency Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR, and the Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, were scheduled to address the gathering.
He also reminded guests of the Bayelsa Mega Praise programme scheduled to take place later in the day as part of the anniversary celebrations.
Speaking on behalf of the state government and people, Ayawei expressed appreciation to individuals and institutions that have contributed to Bayelsa’s development over the years.
He specifically acknowledged the contributions of the public service, traditional institutions, thought leaders, security agencies and youth groups, among others.
“Our profound gratitude also to all who have contributed to making us what we are today — the vibrant and resourceful Public Service, traditional institutions, thought leaders, the security agencies, and youth groups, among others,” he said.
The SSG urged Bayelsans to use the 30th anniversary as an opportunity to strengthen the values required to build a peaceful and prosperous society.
“May this Anniversary serve to reinvigorate us all toward promotion of peace, unity, justice, inclusiveness, and sustainable development. May it inspire us to rise above self and to uphold ideals that will serve as beacon to upcoming generations,” Ayawei said.
He concluded by reaffirming the state’s identity as “The Glory of All Lands”, while wishing Bayelsa State and Nigeria continued progress.
“Long live Bayelsa State. Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
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