Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, has praised Vanguard Newspaper for its extensive coverage of the Niger Delta, stating that no other publication has reported on the region as thoroughly.
Diri made the remark on Tuesday when he received his Good Governance Award from the Vanguard management team, led by Saturday Vanguard Editor, Onochie Anibeze, and Sunday Vanguard Editor, Wale Akinola, at Government House in Yenagoa.
The award recognizes the governor’s dedication to peace, stability, and infrastructure development in Bayelsa. Expressing his gratitude, Diri commended Vanguard Chairman, Sam Amuka, and the paper’s editorial team, urging them to continue their impactful journalism.
“For us in the Niger Delta, Vanguard is our go-to platform. No other newspaper covers our stories like you do. Tell Uncle Sam he is doing a great job,” Diri stated.
He also emphasized the importance of responsible journalism, noting that politicians should be held accountable by the media.
“Journalists have the power to keep politicians in check. If you do the right thing, they will recognize you, and if you don’t, they will call you out,” he added.
Managing Resources & Development
Addressing Bayelsa’s economic challenges, Governor Diri highlighted his administration’s ability to fund over ₦50 billion worth of projects without heavy borrowing.
“People often ask how we finance these projects without taking loans. We simply manage the resources we have. When statistics label Bayelsa as a poor state, I challenge them—give us full control of our resources, and you’ll see us thrive.”
Diri criticized the federal revenue-sharing formula, arguing that the state’s dependence on 13% derivation is unfair.
“Federal allocations shouldn’t define a state’s survival. Let each state control its wealth, and then we’ll see who can truly sustain themselves.”
He also called on the Federal Government to refund money spent on federal road projects in Bayelsa, including the Sagbama-Ekeremor Road and the Nembe-Brass Road.
“We’ve completed federal projects without a refund, but I recently spoke with the Minister of Works, David Umahi, about groundbreaking plans for the Ekeremor-Agge Road. He promised to give me a date soon,” Diri revealed.
Why Vanguard Honored Diri
Presenting the award letter, Saturday Vanguard Editor, Onochie Anibeze, emphasized that the selection process was rigorous and merit-based.
“This award cannot be bought. Governor Diri’s leadership, security efforts, and infrastructure achievements set him apart,” Anibeze said.
He applauded Diri’s commitment to healthcare, education, sports development, and the completion of legacy projects, stating that his impact on Bayelsa was undeniable.
