Diri Urges Bayelsa Businessmen to Invest at Home, Lauds Berezi’s Community Initiative
Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, has called on business leaders of Bayelsa origin to complement government’s development efforts by investing in the state and their respective communities.
The governor made the call on Thursday during the commissioning of the Major F.G. Berezi Civic Centre, a 1,000-seat facility built and donated by a Bayelsa-born businessman, Engr. Preye Berezi, in Kaiama, Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area.
Diri emphasised that government alone cannot shoulder the responsibility of providing employment and driving development, noting that the private sector has a critical role to play in economic growth.
He expressed delight that Berezi responded to his administration’s appeal to Bayelsans to invest in their homeland, describing the gesture as a shining example of patriotism and community spirit.
“Government has not proven to be a very good businessman. When individuals give back to society, everyone benefits,” the governor said.
He described Berezi, the Chief Executive Officer of PFL Engineering Services, as a worthy ambassador of the state who has demonstrated genuine love for his community through impactful projects such as the civic centre.
Diri urged youths in the state to draw inspiration from Berezi’s achievements, encouraging them to dream big, work hard, and take responsibility for their future rather than relying on political patronage.
The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for investors, adding that any development attracted to Bayelsa is a positive sign for the state’s growth.
In his remarks, Chairman of the occasion, Engr. Gesi Asamaowei, commended Berezi for not waiting on government before making a meaningful contribution to his community. He noted that the project, built in honour of Berezi’s late father, would earn him lasting recognition.
“Posterity will be kind to him for this laudable initiative,” Asamaowei said.
Berezi, in his response, expressed deep affection for the people of Kaiama, stating that his commitment to community development was driven by love and a desire to improve living conditions.
He recalled how childhood visits to his hometown exposed the lack of proper facilities for social gatherings, which were often held under a bridge, posing risks to residents.
“I love the people of Kaiama and will continue to support them. They value me, and I do not take that for granted,” he said.
He urged the community to take ownership of the facility and maintain it properly, adding that he would not interfere in its management after handing it over. He also announced plans to construct a mini-stadium in the community.
Several dignitaries, including retired Gen. Stanley Diriyai, former President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Amaju Pinnick, and the Bayelsa State Commissioner for Information, Orientation and Strategy, Mrs. Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai, praised Berezi’s philanthropic gesture.
Other notable attendees at the event included former Deputy Governor, Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John-Jonah (rtd), former Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, Chief Ndutimi Alaibe, members of the state executive council, service commanders, and traditional rulers.
Meanwhile, Governor Diri also paid tribute to the late Chief (Navy Captain) Walter Aye Feghabo-Amain, describing him as an icon, a dedicated leader, and a unifying figure whose legacy would endure.
Speaking at a Night of Tribute held in Yenagoa, the governor said although the state mourns his passing, it also celebrates a life of remarkable service.
“We mourn a man we expected to be with us longer, but we also celebrate a leader who gave his best to our country and our state,” Diri said.
He highlighted the late officer’s distinguished career in the Nigerian Navy, his peaceful disposition, and his contributions to fostering unity and peace in Nembe Kingdom.
Diri noted that although Feghabo-Amain passed on at the age of 68, his impact far outweighed his years and would not be forgotten.
Other speakers, including former Deputy Governor Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John-Jonah (rtd) and Senator Nimi-Barigha Amange, also paid glowing tributes to the late military officer.
Dignitaries at the tribute event included the Deputy Governor, Dr. Peter Akpe, member representing Brass/Nembe Federal Constituency, Mrs. Marie Ebikake, the Chief Judge of the state, Justice Matilda Ayemieye, and President of the Bayelsa Customary Court of Appeal, Justice Daniel Ayah, among others.
