Delta and Bayelsa Assemblies Pledge Commitment to Developmental Agendas
ASABA/Nigeria: The Houses of Assembly of Delta and Bayelsa States have reiterated their unwavering commitment to fostering policies and programmes that promote peace, progress, and development in both states.
This stance was reaffirmed during the opening session of a retreat and training workshop for members of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, held in Asaba, Delta State. The legislative leaders expressed their support for the developmental agendas of their respective governors—Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori’s MORE agenda and Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri’s ASSURED agenda.
Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, emphasised the historical and cultural ties between the two states, highlighting their shared challenges and the necessity for collaboration. “Delta and Bayelsa States share many commonalities, including our environment and culture. Our people face similar challenges, which makes it imperative to work together to improve living standards and infrastructure,” he said.
Welcoming the Bayelsa legislators, Guwor described Asaba as a hub of entertainment and culture and commended the theme of the retreat, “Delivering Governor Douye Diri’s ASSURED Agenda through the State Budget,” as a clear reflection of Bayelsa’s commitment to growth.
“The ASSURED Agenda of His Excellency, Governor Douye Diri, is a well-thought-out policy framework for the development of Bayelsa State. As lawmakers, we play a critical role in implementing such agendas, particularly in budget processing and fiscal oversight,” Guwor remarked.
He praised the retreat’s focus on enhancing legislators’ understanding of budgetary processes, noting its relevance in strengthening democratic governance. “A knowledgeable legislature is the bedrock of democracy. This programme will undoubtedly enhance members’ capacity to navigate the intricacies of the budget process, including the Fiscal Strategy Paper and Medium-Term Expenditure Framework,” he added.
Guwor urged the Bayelsa lawmakers to enjoy the vibrant culture of Asaba during their stay, while extending his best wishes for productive deliberations.
Bayelsa Speaker, Rt. Hon. Abraham Ingobere, underscored the importance of the retreat as a tool for re-orientation and skill enhancement. He described the workshop as essential for equipping lawmakers with the knowledge required to perform their constitutional duties effectively.
“As representatives of the people, our mandate is to create laws that improve lives and safeguard our environment. This retreat serves as a platform to sharpen our legislative and oversight skills, enabling us to better serve our constituents,” Ingobere stated.
He called for unity across party lines, reminding legislators of their shared responsibility to deliver on the trust placed in them by the electorate. “Our dynamic society demands adaptability. Together, we can make meaningful impacts for those who entrusted us with their future,” he said.
John Mutu, President of the African Parliamentary Resource Centre and the lead resource person for the retreat, assured participants of an engaging and impactful programme. He expressed confidence in the lawmakers’ commitment to learning, noting that such initiatives are vital for effective legislative governance.
The retreat marks another milestone in the collaborative efforts between Delta and Bayelsa Assemblies to drive socio-economic development and enhance legislative excellence in the Niger Delta region.
