The importance of entrepreneurship cannot be overemphasized, as it plays a key role in creating jobs and improving people’s standard of living. It drives economic growth by encouraging innovation, increasing productivity, and expanding opportunities across different sectors of the economy. It also promotes self-reliance and creativity, especially among young people and women. By identifying needs and providing solutions through business, entrepreneurs contribute to community development and help build a more stable and sustainable economy.
In line with this, the Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, is investing in human capital development through the Diri Skills Acquisition and Empowerment Programme. Now in its fourth phase, the initiative will equip participants with digital and vocational skills such as mastering AI tools, web and app development, animation, graphic design, digital marketing, fashion design, catering, solar and electrical works, agriculture, welding, and several other trades aimed at fostering self-employment and economic independence.
The programme is open to both indigenes and non-indigenes of the state, promoting inclusivity and broader economic participation.
The distribution of forms began on Monday, March 2, 2026, in Yenagoa Local Government Area and will extend to the remaining local government areas across the state.
Speaking at the event, Mrs. Charity Kens-Godwin, Technical Adviser to the Governor on Entrepreneurship Development and Director-General of the programme, said over 5,000 youths have been empowered since its inception. She assured applicants that the process is free, transparent, and will be properly monitored, urging them to take the opportunity seriously and commending the governor for providing a platform for sustainable livelihoods.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Information, Orientation and Strategy, Mrs. Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai, advised the youths not to sell their starter packs but to use them for the intended purpose.
Also lending his voice, the Mayor of Yenagoa, Mr. Bulodisiye Ndiwari, pledged continued support and promised to assist more graduates in scaling their businesses.
A beneficiary from Southern Ijaw, Mienye Newton, who participated in the first edition in 2021, shared how the programme helped him become self-employed in shoe production after graduation.