Shettima, Mutfwang, UNILAG VC hail Diri’s transformative leadership, commitment to knowledge

Vice President Kashim Shettima, Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, and Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Professor Folasade Ogunsola, have extolled Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, for his visionary leadership and profound contributions to education and good governance.

The trio described Diri’s reforms in the education sector and broader development agenda as a model for building a sustainable, knowledge-driven society.

They spoke on Wednesday at the University of Lagos during the presentation and public launch of a new book, “Leadership Chronicles of Governor Douye Diri,” and the institution of a Professorial Chair in Leadership and Good Governance in his honour.

The book, published under the auspices of UNILAG Consult and co-edited by Professor Hope Eghagha and Sola Ojewusi, was hailed as both a scholarly documentation and a celebration of exemplary leadership.

Vice President Shettima, represented by Lagos State Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, praised Governor Diri for his inclusive and people-oriented governance.

Speaking also on behalf of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Hamzat described Diri’s stewardship in Bayelsa over the past six years as a blend of “compassion, competence, and commitment to peace.”

“I congratulate Governor Douye Diri on this well-deserved recognition.

“This event celebrates your dedication, character, and steadfast adherence to the ideals of good governance. Bayelsa and indeed Nigeria are proud of your achievements, ” he said.

Hamzat also commended the governor’s leadership philosophy, emphasising that “true leadership is not about self-aggrandisement but about creating lasting impact, lifting communities, and expanding opportunities for others.”

He expressed optimism that the publication would inspire a new generation of Nigerian leaders to lead with courage, empathy, and accountability.

Delivering the keynote address, Governor Caleb Mutfwang described Diri as “a quintessential Nigerian leader whose work reflects both the spirit and substance of service.”

Mutfwang lauded UNILAG for documenting Diri’s achievements through a book and endowment, saying the recognition was “both befitting and inspiring.”

He highlighted Diri’s accomplishments in education, healthcare, security, and infrastructural development particularly the state’s Independent Power Project aimed at boosting industrial growth.

“Many have occupied leadership positions and been forgotten.

“But when Governor Diri leaves office, his legacy will continue to resonate. The drums will keep beating long after his exit, ” he said.

He also urged the people of Bayelsa, the Ijaw nation, and the South-South region to remain united in the pursuit of peace and progress.

In her remarks, Vice Chancellor Professor Folasade Ogunsola said the event provided a platform to examine the experiences of a leader navigating one of Nigeria’s most complex and dynamic regions.

She noted that Governor Diri’s public service record offered valuable lessons in governance, conflict management, and peacebuilding in the Niger Delta.

According to her, the establishment of a Professorial Chair in Diri’s honour aligns with UNILAG’s mission to promote excellence in research, education, and innovation.

“Investing in knowledge is one of the most enduring legacies any public official can leave behind,” she said. “Governor Diri has exemplified that commitment.”

In his response, Governor Diri expressed deep appreciation to UNILAG for the recognition, describing it as a call to higher service.

He dedicated the honour to the people of Bayelsa and his administration’s team, affirming his resolve to continue promoting accountability and inclusiveness in governance.

“Those entrusted with public office must remain accountable to the people.

“This recognition is not for me alone but for the entire Bayelsa State. I am inspired to redouble our efforts toward the development of our state and our nation, ” he said.

Diri also pledged his support for the endowed chair, noting that such scholarly initiatives would contribute to policy innovation and national growth.

The event’s highlight included a fundraising segment where more than N1 billion was pledged by lawmakers, government institutions, corporate organisations, and private donors.

The book was reviewed by veteran journalist and TVC’s Journalists’ Hangout anchor, Babajide Kolade-Otitoju, who commended the publication for its depth and insight.

The well-attended ceremony drew dignitaries from across the country, including Senator Sunday Katung (Kaduna South); former Bayelsa Deputy Governor and Chairman of the Bayelsa Elders Council, Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John-Jonah (rtd); National Chairman of the Pan Niger Delta Forum, Dr. Boladei Igali; and business mogul High Chief Victor Egukawhore, who served as chief launcher.

Others included Chief Gesi Asamaowei (CEO, Pelfaco Limited); Mr. Ken Etete (CEO, Century Energy); Mr. Ebitimi Amgbare (MD, Niger Delta River Basin Development Authority); Chief Ndutimi Alaibe (former MD, NDDC); King Bubaraye Dakolo (Chairman, Bayelsa Traditional Rulers Council); and Chief David Lyon, former APC governorship candidate.

Also in attendance were Ebi Egbe of Monimichelle Construction, the Ijaw Ladies Association, and several Niger Delta and Ijaw groups based in Lagos.