By Abdullahi Abdulrahman, Yenagoa

Gill Lever has commended the leadership of Douye Diri for strengthening youth protection, good governance, and community resilience in Bayelsa State.

The British envoy made the remarks at the end of a three-day working visit to the state, where she assessed the impact of the UK-supported Brighter Futures Programme, a crime-prevention initiative designed to support vulnerable young people and prevent recruitment into organised criminal networks.

According to Lever, Bayelsa has demonstrated strong commitment to safeguarding young people and building safer communities through proactive leadership and partnerships.

“Bayelsa continues to demonstrate strong leadership in protecting young people, promoting good governance and strengthening community resilience,” she said.

Brighter Futures Programme Impact on Youth Development

The Brighter Futures Programme, funded by the United Kingdom under its Serious and Organised Crime Prevent Programme, focuses on skills acquisition, mentorship, and resilience-building for at-risk youths.

Officials revealed that the initiative has achieved an 80 percent success rate in diverting vulnerable youths away from organised crime and guiding them toward productive livelihoods.

The programme is scheduled to conclude its current phase in March 2026, after which the Bayelsa State Government will fully assume ownership of the initiative, ensuring its long-term sustainability.

UK–Nigeria Partnership Strengthening Community Security

During her visit, Lever held discussions with Governor Diri on expanding the programme to more local government areas and vulnerable communities across the state.

In recognition of his commitment to youth protection and crime prevention, the governor was formally acknowledged as a Prevent Ambassador.

The UK diplomat also met with Gloria Diri to discuss women’s political empowerment, leadership development, and improved opportunities for women and girls.

Traditional Institutions and Civil Society Engagement

The visit included meetings with civil society organisations and traditional leaders, including Bubaraye Dakolo, Chairman of the Bayelsa State Council of Traditional Rulers.

Discussions focused on the role of traditional institutions in promoting peace, stability, and community cohesion.

At a community town hall in Amarata, beneficiaries shared testimonies of how training and mentoring under the programme helped them build sustainable livelihoods and avoid criminal activities.

The visit reflects the broader UK–Nigeria strategic partnership, which prioritises youth empowerment, women’s leadership, and community-driven development as key pillars for long-term stability and economic growth.