Bayelsa to Honour Late Head of State Sani Abacha Ahead of 30th Anniversary

Bayelsa to Honour Late Head of State Sani Abacha Ahead of 30th Anniversary

Ahead of the 30th anniversary of the creation of Bayelsa State, the state government has announced plans to posthumously honour the late Nigerian Head of State, General Sani Abacha, for his role in the creation of the state.

The announcement followed a courtesy visit by the Bayelsa State Governor to the family of the late military leader at their Asokoro residence in Abuja.

The governor was warmly received by General Abacha’s widow, Her Excellency Dr. Maryam Abacha, his eldest son, Mohammed, other members of the family and grandchildren.

During the visit, Dr. Maryam Abacha reportedly shared nostalgic memories of the family’s time in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, when General Abacha served as Brigade Commander of the Bori Camp.

General Abacha is remembered by many in the Ijaw ethnic nationality for responding to longstanding demands for a separate and homogenous Ijaw state in the Niger Delta. On October 1, 1996, he announced the creation of Bayelsa State from the old Rivers State.

The Bayelsa State Government said the gesture gave the Ijaw people a distinct political identity and provided the foundation for the state’s development over the past three decades.

In recognition of that historic decision, the government will honour General Abacha posthumously alongside other illustrious sons and daughters of Bayelsa State and the Ijaw nation as part of the 30th anniversary celebrations.

The anniversary programme will begin with the commissioning and inauguration of projects executed by the Assured Prosperity Administration.

The celebrations will culminate in a four-day programme of activities beginning on September 28 and will be rounded off on October 1, 2026, with a state dinner and awards ceremony.

The 30th anniversary is expected to provide an opportunity for Bayelsans to reflect on the state’s journey since its creation, celebrate its achievements and honour individuals who played significant roles in shaping its history.