New York, USA – H.E. Sen. Douye Diri, Executive Governor of Bayelsa State, Nigeria, was honoured with the African Leadership Magazine’s 2024 Best Performing Governor Award for South-South Nigeria at the prestigious International Forum on African-Caribbean Leadership (IFAL). The event, which brought together influential leaders from Africa and the Caribbean, emphasised fostering transformative partnerships.
Governor Diri has shown remarkable leadership in public service since assuming office in 2019, following a successful tenure in the Nigerian Senate. He represented Bayelsa Central in the 9th National Assembly, consistently championing the rights and interests of the Ijaw and Niger Delta communities.
Before his governorship, Diri held key positions, including Deputy Chief of Staff at Government House and Principal Executive Secretary during Senator Seriake Dickson’s administration. He also served as Commissioner for Youth and Sports under former President Goodluck Jonathan and was the Executive Secretary of the Bayelsa State Centre for Youth Development, where he led youth development initiatives.
Governor Diri holds a Bachelor of Education in Political Science from the University of Port Harcourt, along with a Nigerian Certificate in Education (NCE). His commitment to education and youth empowerment has been a driving force in his vision for Bayelsa State.
Under his leadership, Bayelsa has made significant progress in infrastructure, healthcare, and education, creating an environment of growth and opportunity. His administration is guided by a firm commitment to discipline, justice, and equity.
The IFAL event was attended by prominent figures, including H.E. Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga, former Prime Minister of Kenya; H.E. Nomvula Paula Mokonyane, Deputy Secretary-General of the African National Congress, South Africa; Ms. Reta Jo Lewis, President of the U.S. Export-Import Bank; and H.E. Agbu Kefas, Governor of Taraba State, Nigeria, among others.
The forum provided a critical platform for addressing pressing global challenges and exploring innovative solutions, particularly concerning Africa and the Caribbean.
Governor Douye Diri’s award underscores his outstanding leadership and unwavering dedication to the development of Bayelsa State. It stands as a testament to his lifelong commitment to public service and community growth.
About the International Forum on African-Caribbean Leadership (IFAL)
The International Forum on African-Caribbean Leadership is an annual event organised by African Leadership Magazine. It brings together global leaders to foster collaboration and develop transformative solutions to challenges facing Africa and the Caribbean.
About African Leadership Magazine
Published by African Leadership (UK) Limited, African Leadership Magazine showcases Africa’s best to the world, focussing on leadership that addresses the continent’s unique challenges. The publication, widely read by international investors, business executives, and policymakers, aims to tell Africa’s story from an African perspective.
For more information, contact:
King Richard Igimoh
Group Editor, African Leadership Organisation
editor@africanleadership.co.uk
king.richards@africanleadership.co.uk