…NASS Caucus, Lokpobiri, Ogbuku Hail Diri’s Vision
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The administration of Governor Douye Diri on Tuesday recorded another landmark achievement with the historic inaugural flight of one of Bayelsa State’s newly acquired aircraft, which landed at the state-owned airport.
The ATR-72/600 aircraft departed the domestic wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, at 09:30hrs with about 50 passengers and crew on board. Among them were Governor Douye Diri; former Deputy Governor, Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John-Jonah (rtd); members of the state’s National Assembly Caucus; Minister of State for Petroleum (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri; Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku; President of the Ijaw National Congress, Prof. Benjamin Okaba; and National Chairman of PANDEF, Dr. Godknows Boladei Igali, among others.
The aircraft touched down at the Bayelsa Airport at 10:40hrs to a jubilant welcome from a large crowd and received the traditional water-cannon salute from airport fire trucks.
Governor Diri described the event as historic and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fulfilling its promise of improving air travel and connecting Bayelsa to the rest of the country and the world.
He said the inauguration of the aircraft was a moment of gratitude for all Bayelsans as it marked a decisive step in strengthening the state’s aviation capacity and expanding economic opportunities.
According to him:
“Six years ago, we promised the people of Bayelsa a future of air connectivity and opportunity. Today, that promise takes wing. Bayelsa is launching its own commercial air services.
“On behalf of your Government of Renewed Hope for Assured Prosperity, I am delighted to commission the first of two ATR-72/600 aircraft, each configured to carry 72 passengers and crew.
“This achievement marks the beginning of a new era of connectivity for Bayelsa—bringing regular, reliable air services that fuel commerce and development, open new markets for businesses, and empower our people to thrive.”
Governor Diri further disclosed that he has directed that the aircraft, currently registered under the name Pioneer Airline, be rebranded as Air Bayelsa or Bayelsa Air before commencing commercial operations, emphasizing that it is state-owned and not a private initiative.
He acknowledged the contributions of past leaders to the state’s aviation journey, particularly the late Chief Diepreye Alamieyeseigha, who conceptualised the airport project, and former Governor Seriake Dickson, who brought it to fruition.
He also expressed appreciation to Premium Trust Bank, Pioneer Airline, and the Bayelsa State House of Assembly for their support.
In his welcome remarks, the Managing Director of Bayelsa Airport Limited, Air Vice Marshal Nelson Calmday (rtd), noted that the airline would not only fly daily to Lagos and Abuja but also serve other Niger Delta states.
Similarly, the Managing Director of Pioneer Airlines, Captain Henry Ungbuku, said the company would reflect the dreams and aspirations of the people of Bayelsa and the Niger Delta. He thanked the governor for his confidence in the airline and pledged that they would not disappoint the state.
The Managing Director/CEO of Premium Trust Bank, Mr. Emmanuel Emefienim, described the achievement as remarkable and a testament to the vision and strategic partnership between the bank and the state government.
Speaking on behalf of the Bayelsa National Assembly Caucus, Senator Konbowei Benson commended Governor Diri’s foresight and reaffirmed the caucus’ support for the developmental strides of the administration.
Also, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Lokpobiri, praised Governor Diri and urged the government to ensure sustainability of the airline by mandating officials to patronise it.
On his part, NDDC Managing Director Samuel Ogbuku described the aircraft acquisition as a welcome development that would better connect Bayelsa to the rest of the country. He pledged the commission’s readiness to partner with the state to ensure the airline’s success.
PANDEF National Chairman, Ambassador Godknows Boladei Igali, commended Governor Diri’s achievements and reaffirmed the forum’s continuous support to help the state reach greater heights.
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