Gov Diri inaugurates visitation panels for Bayelsa Tertiary Institutions

By Tapre Timine, Bayelsa

Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has inaugurated five visitation panels to assess and improve the operations of tertiary institutions across the state. He urged members of the panels to uphold professionalism, transparency, and accountability as they carry out their assignments.

The panels were formally launched on Wednesday at the Executive Council Chambers of Government House in Yenagoa. They are mandated to review the performance and governance of the Niger Delta University, University of Africa (Toru-Orua), Bayelsa Medical University, and the Bayelsa State Polytechnic.

Governor Diri explained that the formation of the panels aligns with the statutory frameworks guiding these institutions, as well as his constitutional responsibilities as Visitor. He directed the members to complete their assessments within 120 days.

“This initiative is driven by our commitment to openness, responsible governance, and a sincere pursuit of progress within our tertiary education system,” Diri said.

“The primary goals are to assess how well each institution is fulfilling its mandate, to examine academic standards, financial practices, infrastructure, and staff and student welfare, as well as to scrutinise existing policies. The panels are expected to identify existing challenges and propose concrete reforms.”

The inauguration was attended by key government figures, including Deputy Governor Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, Leader of the State House of Assembly Hon. Monday Obolo, Secretary to the State Government Professor Nimbofa Ayawei, and other senior officials.