Former President Goodluck Jonathan has urged residents of Bayelsa to appreciate the progress recorded since the state was created 30 years ago, while continuing to work towards greater development.

Jonathan made the call on Thursday night at a dinner and award ceremony organised as part of activities marking the 30th anniversary of the creation of Bayelsa State.

The former President, who was among personalities honoured at the event, said although Bayelsa had yet to reach its desired destination, the creation of the state had given its people a distinct political identity and a homeland they could call their own.

He recalled that Bayelsa was created on October 1, 1996, by the then Head of State, Gen. Sani Abacha, alongside Ebonyi and Ekiti states.

Jonathan said the creation of Bayelsa was significant because it provided the people with greater political identity and a state they could regard as their own.

He urged young Bayelsans not to conclude that there was nothing to celebrate about the state, stressing that sustained development depended on visionary leadership, proper planning and continuity.

The former President recalled an initiative during his tenure as governor in 2006, when secondary school students were asked to write essays projecting what they wanted Bayelsa to become in 25 years.

He said the exercise demonstrated the importance of giving young people the opportunity to articulate their vision for the future of the state.

Jonathan said successive administrations could build on one another’s achievements if leaders had clear visions and plans for the state.

He congratulated the state government and the anniversary committee for recognising individuals who had contributed to Bayelsa’s development.

The former President dedicated his award to his former boss and friend, the late Chief DSP Alamieyeseigha, whom he credited with giving him the opportunity to begin his political career as deputy governor.

He said the recognition of individuals who had contributed to the state would encourage others to serve society and bring pride to the families of deceased recipients.

Jonathan thanked Governor Douye Diri, his wife, the Deputy Governor, diplomats, ambassadors and other dignitaries who attended the anniversary dinner.

He said the celebration should remind Bayelsans of the contributions of past leaders and citizens while inspiring current and future generations to contribute to the state’s continued development.