Governor Diri Leads Bayelsa in Day One of Solemn Assembly Ahead of 14th Annual Thanksgiving
By Passman Akpos
Yenagoa, October 30, 2025 — The Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, alongside his wife, Dr. Gloria Diri, and Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, on Thursday joined other faithful for the Day One of the State’s Solemn Assembly, held at the DSP Alamieyeseigha Memorial Banquet Hall in Yenagoa.
The spiritual gathering marks the commencement of activities leading up to the 14th Annual State Thanksgiving, a tradition that has become a defining feature of Bayelsa’s public life.
In his remarks, Governor Diri emphasized the importance of gratitude and collective prayer in the progress of the state.
> “Right from the inception of the immediate past administration, thanksgiving has become our way of life. For all of us Bayelsans, we have every reason to thank God, because we know where we are coming from, right from the creation of the state,” the governor stated.
He acknowledged the strides Bayelsa has made over the years while calling on citizens to remain steadfast in prayer and unity.
> “We may not be where we expect to be, but we are moving forward. Bayelsa before creation and Bayelsa now, there is a remarkable difference. It behoves you and I to continue to pray for this state. So, for the three days that this Solemn Assembly will be taking place, I invite all of you to be part of it, so that we can pray for our state,” Governor Diri urged.
The event drew an impressive attendance of dignitaries and spiritual leaders, including HRM King Alfred Diete-Spiff, Amayanabo of Twon-Brass and first Military Governor of Rivers State; Rt. Hon. Abraham Ingobere, Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly; Prof. Nimibofa Ayawei, Secretary to the State Government; members of the State Executive Council; HRM King Bubaraye Dakolo, AGADA IV, Ibenanaowei of Ekpetiama Kingdom and Chairman of the Bayelsa State Council of Traditional Rulers; as well as other traditional rulers, clergy, and top government officials.
The Solemn Assembly continues through the week, setting a spiritual tone for the state’s annual thanksgiving celebration — an event that has come to symbolize Bayelsa’s enduring faith and unity.
