The Bayelsa State Government says its independent power project, alongside major infrastructure projects, will be inaugurated this April amid growing expectations.
Also slated for inauguration are the 630-metre Angiama-Oporoma bridge across the River Nun in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area, and a newly constructed dual carriage road linking the New Yenagoa City from the Gbarantoru axis.
Governor Douye Diri made this known during the March edition of the monthly Praise Night at the King of Glory Chapel, Government House, Yenagoa, according to his Chief Press Secretary, Daniel Alabrah.
Diri said the 60-megawatt gas-fired turbine plant, located in Elebele community in Ogbia Local Government Area, is set for test run and will be inaugurated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
He noted that the project, now about 99 per cent completed, would significantly boost socio-economic development and stimulate industrial growth in the state.
“With what I have seen and been assured, April 2026 will not pass us by. However, we must also test run the facility before it fully comes on stream,” the governor said.
He appreciated residents for their patience and support, explaining that the project was initially scheduled for completion in December 2025.
The governor stated that electricity consumption would be metered under a pay-as-you-go system to eliminate estimated billing, stressing that consumers must be willing to pay for power to sustain the facility.
“For 30 years, there has not been steady power supply in our state. We are bringing 60 megawatts, which is far more than what the state currently receives from the national grid,” he added.
On infrastructure, Diri said the 630-metre Angiama-Oporoma bridge, described as the longest in the state was an integral part of the ongoing road project to Agge and is expected to be completed this year, subject to funding.
He recalled that the project was inaugurated by former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo during the administration of late President Muhammadu Buhari.
The governor also disclosed that the dual carriageway linking the New Yenagoa City to the NLNG Road at Obunagha community would serve as a bypass to the Yenagoa-Mbiama road, while the first phase of the Nembe-Brass road is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.
Diri urged political actors in the state to maintain peace and avoid inflammatory statements as political activities intensify across the country.
“Whether you are in government or in the opposition, let us keep the peace. Governments will come and go, but the people will remain,” he said.
In a sermon titled “In Everything Praise God,” Chaplain of Bayelsa Medical University, Steven Olali, encouraged residents to remain grateful in all circumstances, while urging them to maintain faith and live upright lives.
