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The University of Lagos Consultancy Services (UNILAG Consult) has announced plans to honour Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, with the launch of a Professorial Chair on Good Governance and the public presentation of a book celebrating his leadership.
The triple-event ceremony, scheduled for November 5, 2025, at the University of Lagos Main Auditorium, will also feature an international public lecture focused on leadership and governance in Africa.
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of UNILAG Consult, Prof. John Oyefara, said the recognition was in appreciation of Governor Diri's transparent, inclusive and visionary style of governance.
Speaking during a media briefing, Oyefara said the initiative reflects the governor's commitment to good governance and his efforts to deploy technology to improve healthcare and education in Bayelsa State.
He explained that the Professorial Chair on Good Governance would serve as a lasting academic platform for research, teaching and policy discussions on ethical leadership, transparency, innovation and people-centred governance.
According to him, the chair is intended to preserve the lessons of transformational leadership while promoting integrity, accountability and inclusiveness as essential pillars of national development.
Oyefara also announced that the event would witness the unveiling of a new book titled Leadership Chronicles of Governor Douye Diri, which examines the governor's political journey, leadership philosophy and contributions to society.
He described the event as an opportunity to institutionalise Diri's leadership ideals and inspire future generations of public office holders.
Distinguished Professor of English at the University of Lagos and General Editor of the book, Prof. Hope Eghagha, said the initiative aligns with the university's commitment to strengthening the link between academia, public policy and practical leadership.
Eghagha commended Governor Diri for initiatives in healthcare, education, youth empowerment and infrastructure, describing Bayelsa as a growing model of inclusive governance in the Niger Delta.
Project consultant, Sola Ojewusi, highlighted the state's deployment of drone technology for delivering medicines to remote communities, saying the innovation has improved access to healthcare and saved lives.
He said the initiative demonstrates how technology can be effectively deployed to address development challenges and improve public service delivery.
The event is expected to attract prominent academics, policymakers, diplomats and other national and international dignitaries to discuss the future of governance and leadership across Africa.
