Vice President Kashim Shettima has urged political office holders across the nation to serve their fatherland with genuine passion, integrity, and unwavering commitment to good governance.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Speaking through the Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, at the public presentation of a new book titled Leadership Chronicles of Governor Douye Diri, Shettima praised Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri for exemplifying the true spirit of leadership rooted in service and accountability. The event, which also featured a public lecture and the launch of a professorial chair on leadership and good governance, was organised by UNILAG Consult Limited in honour of Governor Diri.

According to Nivo News, the Vice President described the Bayelsa governor as a leader whose legacy reflects dedication and patriotism. “The legacy we build today becomes the history told tomorrow. Let us live with unwavering dedication to our duty. This is what Dr. Douye Diri has embodied. This celebration is a testament to his selfless service and commitment to good governance,” he stated.

Delivering the keynote address, Plateau State Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang said true leaders are ordinary people who rise from among the populace, sharing in their struggles, dreams, and aspirations. He commended Diri’s “vehement zeal” in promoting the cause of the Niger Delta and ensuring development in the region.

In his response, Governor Diri expressed deep appreciation to the authors of the book — Prof. Hope Eghagha and veteran journalist Sola Ojewusi — and to the University of Lagos for the honour bestowed upon him. He stated that the recognition further strengthened his resolve to serve the people of Bayelsa with renewed dedication.

“Going through the pages inspired me to remain steadfast in my duties. The development of Bayelsa has always been and will continue to be my utmost priority. Every project we embark on is aimed at ensuring the prosperity of our people,” Diri said.

Addressing his recent defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), the governor explained that the decision was a strategic step made in the best interest of Bayelsa State. He said his political realignment was motivated by the need to unlock new opportunities for the oil-rich state through closer collaboration with the federal government.

“I have no hidden agenda,” Diri affirmed. “Joining the APC is about improving infrastructure, ensuring security, enhancing agriculture, expanding education, and creating jobs for our youth. With President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima, I am confident that Bayelsa will witness greater development.”

Former Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Chief Timi Alaibe, described the event as a rare example of real-time leadership documentation in Nigeria, noting that such practice is common only in developed democracies. He said the initiative helps preserve the history of governance and leadership for future generations.

The Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, lauded the honour as a step towards institutionalising good governance and mentorship. She stressed that leadership should always be viewed as a responsibility anchored in service, integrity, and accountability. Quoting Nelson Mandela, she said investing in education through the endowment of the professorial chair ensures that Diri’s leadership legacy would remain impactful and enduring.