The Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, has restated his administration’s unwavering commitment to the provision of critical infrastructure across the state, stressing that rural development remains central to his government’s agenda.
Governor Diri made this known at the weekend in Ayakoro community, hometown of the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Samuel Ogbuku, during activities marking the 68th anniversary of the historic relocation of the community.
The annual cultural festival, popularly known as “Eyal Obeyin,” commemorates Ayakoro’s relocation in 1958 from its former settlement following severe erosion that threatened the survival of the community.
Speaking at the colourful event, the governor explained that his administration’s drive for infrastructural development is aimed at improving the standard of living of Bayelsans and making rural communities more accessible and habitable.
According to him, the provision of road networks and other basic amenities would enable residents to live comfortably in their communities while working in the state capital and returning home safely.
He noted that it was based on this vision that his government embarked on strategic projects such as the Yenagoa–Angiama–Oporoma–Ubie road and the Akaba–Okodi road, among others across the state.
Reflecting on the challenges faced by his administration, Governor Diri said: “Upon our swearing-in in 2020, I became a COVID-19 Governor. Shortly after that, in 2022, the state experienced the worst flooding in its history, and we were totally cut off from the rest of the country.
“I visited all the 105 political wards of the state to assess the impact of the flood. What I saw in Ayakoro was not different from what I saw in other affected communities.
“Today, we can see a new Ayakoro, courtesy of what my brother and friend, the MD/CEO of the NDDC, is doing. Some people like running others down in politics, but I do not believe in that. We must stop such politics and focus on development.”
He further disclosed that Ayakoro is among the benefiting communities of the ongoing Akaba–Okodi road project, noting that the road has advanced significantly and is now within close proximity to the community.
“We are determined to develop Bayelsa State with meaningful infrastructural projects that will stand the test of time,” he added.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the occasion, Obinna Iyiegbu, popularly known as Obi Cubana and Chairman of the Cubana Group, commended the Ayakoro community for preserving its rich cultural heritage through the annual festival.
He described cultural celebrations as powerful platforms for promoting tourism, unity, and investment opportunities, stating that what he witnessed in Ayakoro reflected love, bonding, and a peaceful coexistence among the people.
Also speaking, the NDDC Managing Director, Samuel Ogbuku, lauded Governor Diri for honouring the community with his presence and for the projects executed by his administration in Ayakoro and other parts of the state.
While expressing appreciation for the secondary school building constructed by the state government in the community, Ogbuku appealed for additional projects to complement ongoing development efforts by both the state government and the NDDC.
“Your Excellency, the secondary school building standing close to this arena is a project executed by your administration. As a community, we appreciate what you have done, but we also appeal that you award and execute more projects here to complement the existing ones by your administration and the NDDC,” he said.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Ayakoro Council of Chiefs, Chief Pureaziba Akpoti, gave an insight into the historical significance of the festival. He explained that before the 1958 relocation, the present site of the community was a dense forest feared by residents who believed it was inhabited by spirits and dangerous creatures.
According to him, it took prayers and consultations with spiritual leaders before the community courageously moved to its current location.
The anniversary celebration featured cultural displays, traditional music, and community bonding activities, underscoring the resilience and unity of the Ayakoro people over the decades.