Vice President Kashim Shettima, Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, and Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, have lauded Governor Douye Diri’s remarkable strides in the education sector.
They described his administration’s reforms and investments in the sector as visionary in driving a knowledge-based economy.
They gave the commendation at the formal book presentation/launch, public lecture, and institution of a professorial chair on leadership and good governance in honour of Gov. Diri at the University of Lagos on Wednesday.
They said his book: “Leadership Chronicles of Governor Douye Diri,” which was edited by Prof. Hope Eghagha and Sola Ojewusi under the UNILAG Consult, and the endowment of a professorial chair in the Department of Political Science were not only tributes to the Bayelsa governor but also a masterclass in leadership.
Shettima, who was represented by the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Obafemi Hamzat, said the book captured the spirit of Gov. Diri’s leadership style, which he said was “refreshing, deliberate, and deeply attuned to the oaths and aspirations of his people.”
Hamzat, who also spoke on behalf of the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, noted that Gov. Diri’s stewardship in Bayelsa State in about six years had been characterised by a rare blend of compassion and competence and demonstrated that meaningful progress could be achieved through dialogue, inclusiveness, and relentless effort.
Shettima expressed the hope that the book would serve as a beacon to inspire leadership across the country to lead compassionately and courageously.
The keynote speaker and Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang, described Gov. Diri as a great Nigerian who has demonstrated in spirit and in letter the essence of leadership.
Gov. Mutfwang congratulated the Vice Chancellor and UNILAG Consult for documenting Gov. Diri’s achievements, which he described as a befitting and prestigious honour.
According to him, the Bayelsa State governor has demonstrated quality leadership in virtually every facet of development, particularly in areas of education, healthcare delivery, security, and the ongoing effort to light up the state through its independent power project.
He equally stressed the need for Bayelsans, the Ijaw nation, and the South South to unite and foster peace and development in the region.
“Several people have had the opportunity to be in leadership and have been forgotten. But l know that when Governor Diri vacates the scene, the drums will still be beating,” the governor said.
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Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, said the book provided an opportunity to examine ideas, experiences, and reflections of a leader serving in one of Nigeria’s most complex and dynamic regions.
She noted that the Bayelsa State governor’s public life offered valuable insights into governance, conflict management, and the search for peace and development in the Niger Delta.
Prof. Ogunsola said the professorial chair in honour of Gov. Diri aligned with the institution’s mission to be a global centre of excellence in education, research, and innovation.
She commended the Bayelsa State governor for investing in knowledge, as it was one of the most enduring contributions any public servant can make to society.
Responding, Gov. Diri said the honour would spur him and his team to work harder in the service of the state.
He noted that the recognition was not only for him but was for the entire Bayelsa State, and expressed appreciation to the institution’s management and the editorial team for acknowledging and compiling his administration’s achievements.
“Those in positions of authority must be accountable to the people and earn their trust, without which confidence in governance will inevitably wane.
“It is in that spirit that l accept this book, which seeks to honour not only me but the entirety of Bayelsa State.
“I accept to support the professorial chair and encourage scholarship that would be beneficial not only to Bayelsa State but also to Nigeria.”
The book was reviewed by veteran journalist and anchor of the programme, Journalists Hangout, on Television Continental (TVC), Mr. Babajide Kolade-Otitoju.
