From Kenechukwu Obiajuru, Yenagoa
In the heart of Igbomotoru, a riverine community in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, hope has taken a concrete form—a 12-classroom modern secondary school, complete with staff quarters, fencing, and landscaping. The project, delivered by the Senator Douye Diri-led Prosperity Administration, is more than just bricks and mortar—it’s a promise fulfilled and a new dawn for the people.
On Monday, a delegation led by Hon. (Engr.) Ebiye Tarabina, Chairman of the Directorate for Project Monitoring and Evaluation, and Hon. Dr. Gentle Emelah, Commissioner for Education, paid a working visit to the site to inspect the finished project and interact with community members.
Today is a celebration of progress,” declared Hon. Tarabina. “Despite the tough terrain and logistic difficulties, we have delivered quality. This is what the Prosperity Administration is all about—impacting lives where it matters most.”
The school, built by Hefdas Constructions, features a storey building with 12 well-ventilated classrooms, modern furniture, a Principal’s residence, staff accommodation, and a fully secured compound.
Commissioner Emelah emphasized the significance of the project during the inspection:“
This is not just a school. It is an empowerment tool for generations to come. Every child that walks into this building will have a better chance at life because Governor Diri believes that no community should be left behind.”
Community leaders, teachers, and parents welcomed the delegation with joy and appreciation. Barr. Festus Daumiebi, a prominent son of the community, expressed heartfelt gratitud “We have long dreamed of a school like this. Our children had to travel far, often by boat, to attend classes. Now, they can learn in their own community. This is how a government earns the people’s trust.”
Project Manager Engr. Goodluck Ofodah, from the Ministry of Education, noted that the school was delivered in record time and built to meet safety and environmental standards, including proper drainage and accessible walkways.
With academic activities set to begin in the coming session, the new school is poised to serve not just Igbomotoru, but also neighboring communities—ushering in educational inclusion for hundreds of students.
As the sun set over Igbomotoru that evening, one elderly community woman, Mama Ebikaboere, summed it up in Ijaw dialect, her face lit with pride: “This school don land like light for this community.”
Indeed, the Prosperity Government’s light continues to shine across Bayelsa’s remotest corners—one project at a time.
