Renowned Ijaw stakeholder and academic, Hon. Wisdom Oniekpar Ikuli, has called for greater recognition of one of the key minds behind the infrastructural success of the Governor Douye Diri administration in Bayelsa State, the Hon. Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Esv. Moses Teibowei.
Hon. Ikuli described Esv. Teibowei as a visionary leader who turned the long-held narrative of “difficult terrain” in Bayelsa into a story of possibility and progress.
Hon. Ikuli noted that Bayelsa State is 75% riverine, and for many years access to most communities was limited to speed boats and canoes.
“For many years, the word ‘DIFFICULT TERRAIN’ was sang like anthem in Bayelsa State,” he said.
“Then a Caleb came. While the ten spies saw the usual very intimidating giants ‘difficult terrain’, Caleb saw a fertile, flourishing and very prosperous land.
Esv. Moses Teibowei is the Caleb who saw a conquerable terrain and not the usual story of difficult terrain.”
According to him, Gov. Douye Diri, whom he described as the “Moses and Lee Kuan Yew of our time,” sent out leaders to proffer solutions, and Esv. Teibowei returned with a roadmap that is now driving the infrastructural development of the “New Bayelsa.”
Hon. Ikuli cited several projects as proof of the Commissioner’s impact, asking:
“Who would have imagined or believed that the Angiama-Oporoma 630-metres Bridge and the road to Oporoma, Otuan and other adjoining communities is possible?
Who would have imagined or believed that the Nembe-Brass road is possible?
Who would have imagined or believed that 75% of Bayelsa State that was hitherto riverine could be connected by road in a space of 6 years?”
He added: “Today, 75% of Bayelsa State can be accessed by good roads and bridges that are criss-crossing everywhere.”
The Ijaw stakeholder said the success story also highlights the importance of surrounding leaders with competent and loyal aides.
“This story also speaks volume about the kind of aides and people we keep around us whether as public or private individuals. Whether we like it or not, the kind of company we keep have positive or negative influences around us.”
“Gov. Douye Diri got it right in the choice of Esv. Moses Teibowei as Commissioner of Works and Infrastructure, the same way he made other good choices,” Hon. Ikuli stated.
He further noted that in developed climes, exceptional public servants like Esv. Teibowei are usually retained across administrations to sustain continuity.
“In other civilized and developed climes, someone like Esv. Moses Teibowei is usually engaged to serve many administrations to continue his good works.
The same way no military general/commander can succeed without an outstanding loyal and committed troop, no political or religious leader can actually succeed without loyal, competent, committed, trustworthy, productive and highly resourceful aides.”
Hon. Ikuli concluded by commending both the Commissioner and the Governor for their roles in transforming Bayelsa.
“Esv. Moses Teibowei deserves high level of encomium for his vision, immeasurable sacrifices and fidelity.
May God bless Gov. Douye Diri for his good works. He is indeed the Father of the New Bayelsa State.”