Shettima, Mutfwang, Ogunsola Hail Governor Douye Diri’s Transformative Achievements in Education
—As UNILAG honours Bayelsa Governor with book launch, professorial chair on leadership and good governance
By Passman Akpos
Vice President Kashim Shettima, Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, and Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, have commended Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State for his transformative contributions to education and leadership in governance.
The trio gave their commendations during the formal Book Presentation/Launch, Public Lecture, and Institution of a Professorial Chair on Leadership and Good Governance held in honour of Governor Diri at the University of Lagos on Wednesday.
They described the Bayelsa governor’s reforms and investments in education as visionary, noting that his administration’s focus on human capital development was driving a knowledge-based economy in the Niger Delta region.
The event featured the unveiling of a new publication titled “Leadership Chronicles of Governor Douye Diri”, edited by Prof. Hope Eghagha and Sola Ojewusi under the UNILAG Consult, alongside the establishment of a Professorial Chair in the Department of Political Science.
Representing Vice President Shettima, Lagos State Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat praised Diri’s leadership style, describing it as “refreshing, deliberate, and deeply attuned to the aspirations of his people.”
Speaking on behalf of Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Hamzat said Diri’s nearly six years in office had been defined by compassion, competence, and inclusive governance.
> “This celebration is a testament to your unwavering service, exemplary character, and steadfastness to the principles of good governance,” Hamzat said. “The book reminds us that leadership is not about self-aggrandisement but about uplifting communities, fostering peace, and creating opportunities where none existed.”
Shettima expressed optimism that the book would inspire a new generation of Nigerian leaders to lead “compassionately and courageously.”
Delivering the keynote address, Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State hailed Diri as a leader who embodies the spirit of service and national unity.
> “Governor Diri has demonstrated quality leadership in virtually every sector — from education and healthcare to security and power,” Mutfwang said. “Several people have held office and been forgotten, but when Governor Diri leaves the scene, the drums will still be beating.”
He urged Bayelsans and the Ijaw nation to remain united in the pursuit of peace and regional development.
In her remarks, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, Vice Chancellor of UNILAG, said the event was a celebration of knowledge and leadership rooted in impact.
> “Governor Diri’s public life offers valuable lessons in governance, conflict management, and the search for peace in the Niger Delta,” she said. “By endowing a professorial chair, he invests in knowledge — one of the most enduring contributions any leader can make.”
Responding, Governor Diri expressed gratitude to the institution and the organisers for the recognition, saying the honour would motivate him to do more for Bayelsa State.
> “Those in authority must earn the trust of their people,” he said. “This recognition is not just for me but for the entire Bayelsa State. I accept to support the professorial chair and encourage scholarship that will benefit both Bayelsa and Nigeria.”
Veteran journalist Babajide Kolade-Otitoju of TVC reviewed the book, describing it as a well-documented reflection of effective and compassionate leadership.
The ceremony also witnessed over ₦1 billion in donations from individuals, government officials, and corporate bodies in support of the professorial chair and educational initiatives.
Dignitaries present included Senator Sunday Katung (Kaduna South), former Bayelsa Deputy Governor Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John-Jonah (rtd), Dr. Boladei Igali, Chief Victor Egukawhore (chief launcher), Chief Gesi Asamaowei, Mr. Ken Etete, Ebitimi Amgbare, Chief Ndutimi Alaibe, King Bubaraye Dakolo, Chief David Lyon, and representatives of several Niger Delta and Ijaw organisations.
The event underscored the growing national recognition of Governor Diri’s leadership ethos — one anchored on peace, inclusiveness, and education-driven development.
