Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has expressed appreciation to the Christian community for their sustained prayers, which he said have contributed significantly to the peace and stability in the state.
Governor Diri made the commendation on Easter Sunday while hosting Christian leaders and pastors from various denominations at his country home in Sampou, Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area.
Speaking during the Easter luncheon, the governor said the prayers of the Christian faithful have been pivotal to the relative peace enjoyed in the state and acknowledged their moral and spiritual support for his administration.
“Today (Easter Sunday) is the reason we are all Christians. On behalf of your government and the people of Bayelsa State, I welcome you and wish you a happy Easter celebration,” the governor said.
“I met with the Muslim leaders during Eid-el-Fitr, and it is only appropriate I also meet with our Christian leaders. I feel blessed to be surrounded by men and women of faith who speak truth to power and lift the state up in prayer. Your prayers and overwhelming support encourage me to continue to serve diligently and not disappoint the people.”
Governor Diri reaffirmed his commitment to the service of the state and appealed to the Christian leaders to remain steadfast in their intercessions for his administration and the progress of Bayelsa.
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Earlier, Special Adviser on Religious Matters, Rev. Godspower Asingba, thanked the governor for the Easter luncheon, describing the gesture as a demonstration of his inclusive and compassionate leadership.
In their separate remarks, Bishop Bob Manuel and Mrs. Grace Iyabi commended Governor Diri for key developmental projects under his administration. They cited the ongoing construction of the new stadium, the civil service secretariat, procurement of gas turbines to boost independent power generation, the New Yenagoa City initiative, and various road projects as clear evidence of his commitment to the welfare of Bayelsans.
Also speaking, the Bayelsa State Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Rev. Fr. Joseph Opelema, assured the governor of the continued prayers of the Christian community for the success of his administration and for him to finish strong.
The Easter gathering, marked by music, prayers, and reflections, was a celebration of faith and unity between the government and the church in the state.