Jonathan Honors Bayelsa's 30-Year Journey, Credits Abacha's 1996 Decision

On Thursday evening, Bayelsa State's three-decade milestone was marked with a formal dinner and awards ceremony held in Yenagoa. Former President Goodluck Jonathan and Governor Douye Diri both acknowledged the late General Sani Abacha's role in establishing the state by separating it from the former Rivers State during 1996.

This carving-out represented a watershed moment for the Ijaw people, furnishing them with a distinct political entity and an administrative homeland. Jonathan, recognized among 63 individuals honoured throughout the evening, reflected on how the state had progressed over its three-decade existence.

While acknowledging that full potential remained ahead, he noted significant gains had accrued to residents and bolstered collective identity among Bayelsans. Despite persistent challenges, creation of the state had reshaped the political and social landscape fundamentally for its people, according to the former president.

The awards ceremony took place at the Chief Diepreye Alamieyeseigha Memorial Banquet Hall within Government House, Yenagoa. Jonathan chose to dedicate his recognition to his late political guide and onetime state governor, Chief Diepreye Alamieyeseigha.

He recognized how Alamieyeseigha shaped his own political trajectory by recruiting him into governmental work when serving as governor. This gesture illustrated continuities linking Bayelsa's foundational leadership with contemporary figures.

Alongside Jonathan, Governor Diri stressed that establishing the state marked a turning point regarding Ijaw political representation and participation. During the commemoration, Bayelsa's political leadership collectively acknowledged that since its 1996 founding, substantial evolution had occurred.

Nevertheless, both current and former officeholders regard further advancement as vital for the state's future. The gathering assembled notable political personalities to jointly observe this significant anniversary.