Celebration
BAYELSA GOVERNOR DIRI MARKS 5TH ANNIVERSARY, UNVEILS IMPRESSIVE SCORECARD
Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, marked the fifth anniversary of his administration with a thanksgiving service at the Ecumenical Centre, Igbogene, Yenagoa. The well-attended event was graced by prominent Nigerians, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, former President Goodluck Jonathan’s wife, Dame Patience, and Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Muftwang.
The Chief Press Secretary, Daniel Alabrah, noted that Governor Diri used the occasion to render his stewardship, highlighting the completion of several impactful projects, as well as ongoing and newly-awarded projects. Daniel Alabrah stated that the governor listed some of the projects to include the three big-ticket senatorial roads, particularly the Bayelsa Central road, which would get to Oporoma and be inaugurated this year. Alabrah also mentioned that the second phase of the Nembe-Brass road in Bayelsa East would come on stream, while the ongoing first phase would be 90% completed by the end of the year.
Governor Diri also announced plans to construct a 25,000-seat FIFA-standard stadium, which would be flagged off by Dr. Jonathan on Monday. Alabrah noted that the administration was addressing the issue of civil servants’ office accommodation by commencing the building of an iconic nine-storey secretariat complex. Daniel Alabrah stated that the contractor, Megastar Limited, had already been paid 50% of the project cost.
In the area of education, Governor Diri said there had been a shift in paradigm to science and technical education, with the government building and equipping five science and technical colleges across the state. Alabrah stated that the governor directed the Commissioner for Education to ensure that the two local government areas yet to be covered were completed this year.
On the issue of epileptic power supply, Governor Diri said it would be a thing of the past when the 60mw gas turbines worth $60 million arrive the state. “We have agreed with a private company that is supplying us 60mw of gas turbines, big enough to serve not only Yenagoa but the whole of Bayelsa State. We are expecting the gas turbines to arrive Nigeria in the next two months, and I can promise you without looking back that by the end of this year, we will have 24 hours independent power supply,” Governor Diri said.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, represented by his Special Adviser on Economic Matters, Dr. Tope Fasua, commended Bayelsa State’s significant development and economic progress. He noted that the state was diversifying beyond crude oil and gas, which include agriculture, fishery, and sports, crucial to the state’s prosperity.
The event was attended by other dignitaries, including Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, Deputy Governor of Delta State, Monday Onyeme, and former Military Governor of old Rivers State, King Alfred Diete-Spiff.
Celebration
GOVERNOR OBOREVWORI HAILS OBI OF OWA KINGDOM AT 88, PRAISES MONARCH’S WISDOM AND LEADERSHIP
Delta State Governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, has congratulated the Obi of Owa Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Obi (Dr) Emmanuel Efeizomor II, OON, as the revered traditional ruler marks his 88th birth anniversary. Oborevwori in a congratulatory message issued in Asaba by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, described the monarch as one of Delta State’s most respected and accomplished traditional rulers who has contributed immensely to the growth of his kingdom and the state at large.
Governor Oborevwori noted that over the years, Obi Efeizomor II has continued to demonstrate wisdom, commitment and exemplary leadership in guiding the Owa Kingdom while also contributing meaningfully to the broader development of Delta State. He commended the monarch for preserving the rich cultural heritage and tradition of the Owa people, describing him as a revered father figure and a source of inspiration to many within and beyond the kingdom.
The governor also acknowledged the visible transformation witnessed in the Owa Kingdom during the monarch’s reign, particularly in the areas of infrastructure and human capital development, which he said had strengthened the socio-economic progress of the community. Oborevwori further praised the royal father for his service as the immediate past Chairman of the Delta State Council of Traditional Rulers, noting that his tenure was marked by wisdom, humility and a strong commitment to peace and unity among traditional institutions across the state.
“On behalf of my family, the government and the good people of Delta State, I warmly congratulate His Royal Majesty, Obi (Dr) Emmanuel Efeizomor II, OON, Obi of Owa Kingdom, on the joyful occasion of his 88th birth anniversary,” the governor said. He prayed for God’s continued blessings upon the monarch, wishing him many more years of good health, strength and wisdom as he continues to serve the Owa Kingdom, Delta State and humanity at large.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended a powerful and respectful birthday message to former President Olusegun Obasanjo, celebrating his 89th birthday and recognising the elder statesman’s contributions to Nigeria’s democracy, governance and national development. The message, delivered from Abuja, underscores Tinubu’s admiration for Obasanjo’s enduring influence on the country’s political landscape.
In his tribute released on Thursday, March 5, 2026, Tinubu highlighted Obasanjo’s long years of public service from his leadership as a military ruler in the 1970s to his two-term civilian presidency from 1999 to 2007 and described him as a patriotic and tireless servant of Nigeria. He thanked Obasanjo for his role in deepening democratic institutions, promoting peace, and mentoring successive generations of Nigerian leaders.
Tinubu also used the occasion to pray for Obasanjo’s continued health, wisdom, and strength, urging Nigerians to draw inspiration from his resilience and commitment to national unity. The president’s message reaffirmed the importance of respecting elder statesmen and valuing their experiences in shaping public discourse.
Political analysts say the public recognition signals continued respect across political divides and reinforces the idea that national service transcends party affiliations. It also comes amid ongoing debates about leadership, generational change and national cohesion in Nigeria as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections.
Celebration
DELTA GOVERNOR HAILS BUSINESS TYCOON MATT OFFEH AT 60, LAUDS HIS LEGACY OF ENTERPRISE AND PHILANTHROPY
Delta State Governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, has extended warm felicitations to renowned businessman and philanthropist, High Chief Dr. Matt Offeh, Eni 1 of Irri Kingdom, as he marks his 60th birth anniversary, describing him as a towering figure in enterprise, community development and regional advancement.
In a congratulatory message signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, the Governor praised the Irri-Isoko-born entrepreneur for his remarkable contributions to the economic growth and social transformation of the Niger Delta, particularly the Isoko nation.
Governor Oborevwori said High Chief Offeh’s diamond jubilee is not only a celebration of a worthy life, but a tribute to a life defined by vision, resilience, industry and an unwavering commitment to community upliftment.
“On behalf of the government and the good people of Delta State, I heartily congratulate my dear brother and friend, High Chief Dr. Matt Offeh, on the auspicious occasion of his 60th birthday,” he said. “This diamond jubilee is a milestone that reflects a legacy of hard work, integrity and selfless service.”
The Governor commended the celebrant’s sterling leadership as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Lesoda Oil & Gas Company Limited, Lesoda Farms and Peoples Concept Nigeria Limited, noting that through these thriving enterprises, Offeh has not only built successful businesses but also created employment opportunities and stimulated economic activities across the region.
He described High Chief Offeh as a quintessential Isoko son whose investments and philanthropic interventions have strengthened local capacity, empowered youths, supported families and promoted sustainable development within host communities.
“Your commitment to the unity, peace and progress of the Isoko ethnic nationality remains exemplary. You have consistently deployed your resources, influence and experience toward fostering harmony and driving meaningful development in the Niger Delta. For this, we owe you an enduring debt of gratitude,” Oborevwori added.
According to the Governor, High Chief Offeh represents the finest ideals of enterprise blended with compassion, stressing that his life story continues to inspire a new generation of Niger Delta entrepreneurs to pursue excellence while firmly committed to the welfare of the communities.
“As you celebrate this significant milestone, it is my prayer that God Almighty grants you many more years in good health, wisdom and strength to continue your invaluable service to Delta State, the Niger Delta and humanity at large,” the statement concluded.