Douye Diri

**Douye Diri: Nigerian Politician and Governor of Bayelsa State** Douye Diri (born June 4, 1959) is a Nigerian politician who currently serves as the Governor of Bayelsa State, a position he has held since 2020. He is a prominent figure within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and has contributed significantly to both legislative and executive governance in Nigeria. **Early Life and Education** Diri was born in Kolokuma-Opokuma Local Government Area of Bayelsa State. His educational background includes attending various schools in the region before pursuing higher education. He holds a Nigerian Certificate in Education (NCE) in Political Science from the College of Education, Port Harcourt, and a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) degree in Political Science from the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT). **Career Progression and Political Life** Diri's professional career began in teaching before he transitioned into politics and public service. He held several key roles within the Bayelsa State government, including serving as the Executive Secretary of the Centre for Youth Development in Bayelsa State. His rise in national politics began when he was elected to the Federal House of Representatives in 2015, representing the Yenagoa/Kolokuma/Opokuma Federal Constituency. In 2019, he further advanced his political career by being elected as the Senator representing the Bayelsa Central Senatorial District in the 9th National Assembly, a position he held briefly. **Major Achievements and Current Status** In November 2019, Diri contested the Bayelsa State gubernatorial election. Following a complex legal process, the Supreme Court of Nigeria nullified the election of the opposing candidate and declared Diri as the duly elected Governor of Bayelsa State in February 2020. His administration, often referred to as the "Prosperity Government," focuses on infrastructure development, youth empowerment, and peacebuilding in the Niger Delta region. He successfully contested for re-election in 2023, securing a second term in office. He continues to serve as the executive governor of Bayelsa State.