By Julius Agadaga, Yenagoa
Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has restated his administration’s commitment to promoting increased participation of women in politics and governance.
Governor Diri gave the assurance in Yenagoa during a reception to mark the 60th birthday of the lawmaker representing Sagbama Constituency III in the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Chief Ebizi Ndiomu-Brown.
According to a statement by Mr. Doubara Atasi, Senior Special Assistant on Media to the deputy governor who represented the Governor, said the government would sustain efforts to encourage women’s involvement in politics.
He urged women to present qualified and competent candidates who can compete favourably and deliver results.
“As a government, we will continue to identify with the advocacy and other efforts encouraging women to come into politics. But I want to use this opportunity to encourage women to present their best,” Diri said.
“We need competent women like Ebizi Brown who can do the job; women that can deliver and move our society forward. Women like her are rare to find. Her track records are there and I know she will continue to deliver.”
The Governor described women as critical to nation-building and assured that inclusivity would remain a key component of his administration’s governance agenda.
Earlier, Dr. Akpe, in a sermon titled “From Strength to Strength” at the Divine Grace Model Parish of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Kpansia, Yenagoa, described Mrs. Ndiomu-Brown as an embodiment of God’s grace.
Quoting Isaiah 40:31, the Deputy Governor urged Christians to rely on God as their source of strength to overcome challenges and accomplish impactful assignments.
He noted that attaining 60 years was a significant milestone and prayed for good health and greater exploits for the celebrant.
Chairman of the occasion, Vice Admiral Victor Ombu, Rtd, commended Mrs. Ndiomu-Brown for upholding the values of her family and making her late parents, Major General Charles Ndiomu and Mrs. Grace Ndiomu, proud.
In her response, the celebrant expressed gratitude to Governor Diri, Dr. Akpe, colleagues, friends, and family members for celebrating with her.
The event drew dignitaries including the Wife of the Deputy Governor, Dr. Favour Akpe; former Deputy Governor of Rivers State, Sir Gabriel Toby, and his wife, Dame Christy Toby; former Bayelsa Deputy Governor, Chief Peremobowei Ebebi; Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abraham Ingobere; and the State Chief Judge, Justice Matilda Ayemieye.
Others in attendance were the President of Azikel Group, Dr. Azibapu Eruani; Chairman, Governing Board of the NDDC, Mr. Chiedu Ebie; APC State Chairman, Hon. Warman Ogoriba; traditional rulers; commissioners; and other stakeholders.
