Jonathan Reflects on Bayelsa's 30-Year Journey, Pushes for More Development

During a special dinner and awards ceremony commemorating Bayelsa State's three-decade existence, former President Goodluck Jonathan highlighted the significant advancements made by the state since its creation. Speaking on Thursday evening, Dr. Jonathan encouraged citizens to acknowledge the journey so far while collectively striving for even greater strides in development.

The former President, himself an honoree at the event, acknowledged that despite not yet achieving its ultimate aspirations, the establishment of Bayelsa State provided its people with a unique political identity and a place they could truly call their own. He was quoted saying, “We may not have reached where we are supposed to, but I’m happy where we are. I’m happy that Bayelsa State was created, and we have gained tremendously.”

Dr. Jonathan further reminisced about the state's inception on October 1, 1996, under the then Head of State, General Sani Abacha, concurrently with Ebonyi and Ekiti states. He emphasized the profound importance of this creation, stating it bestowed a clear identity upon the populace and offered them a definitive home. “Bayelsa State was created for us to at least give us identity as young people, and that has given us a home that we can say this is our own,” he remarked.

Addressing the youth of Bayelsa, he cautioned against the notion that the state lacks achievements worth celebrating, underscoring that sustained progress is contingent upon farsighted leadership and meticulous planning.

The former President recounted an initiative from his gubernatorial tenure in 2006, where secondary school students were encouraged to articulate their visions for Bayelsa in 25 years through essay writing. He described the outcome as “beautiful essays,” illustrating the critical role of empowering young people to express their aspirations for the state's future.

He articulated his belief in continuous progress, stating, “As long as we have a vision and as long as we have leaders, governors that have vision, that have plan for the state, one will hand over to the other one, and God willing, we’ll get where we want to go.”

Jonathan also extended his felicitations to the state government and the anniversary committee for acknowledging individuals who have contributed significantly to Bayelsa’s growth. He shared insights into the challenging nature of selecting award recipients, drawing parallels to his experiences with national honours during Nigeria's 50th independence anniversary and its centenary celebration.

In a poignant moment, the former President dedicated his own award to his late mentor and friend, Chief DSP Alamieyeseigha, crediting him with launching his political journey by appointing him as deputy governor. He elaborated, “For me, my own award, I have dedicated it to my friend and my boss, Chief DSP Alamieyeseigha, because he brought me in as a deputy governor. If I did not start that journey as a deputy governor, no way I would have gone to where I am.”

Dr. Jonathan lauded the organisers for their foresight in honouring those who have made impactful contributions to both the state and wider society. He emphasised that such recognition serves as an incentive for others to contribute meaningfully, while also bringing honour to the families of posthumous awardees.

He concluded by expressing gratitude to Governor Douye Diri, his wife, the Deputy Governor, various diplomats, ambassadors, and other esteemed guests present at the anniversary dinner. Jonathan stressed that the ongoing celebrations should serve as a powerful reminder of the efforts of past leaders and citizens, simultaneously inspiring current and future generations to sustain the state's developmental trajectory.