Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri has described Arise News Reporter, Mr Ovieteme George as a shining light of the nation's media industry.
Governor Diri made the remark at his residence in Government House, Yenagoa during the presentation of two prestigious awards recently won by Ovieteme George in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, as well as the national “Reporter of the Year” award from the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON) in Abuja.
He noted that Mr. Ovieteme George's persistence and hard work has continued to put Bayelsa and the nation on the global map, stating that he was proud of Ovieteme that the award reflects his sacrifices and commitment towards his job over the years as a journalist.
According to the state helmsman, the awardee has become a shining light of the country's media industry with his professional reportage and also projecting the State and the Niger Delta region to the world, pointing out that the latest feat was the beginning of many more accolades and greater impact.
He asserted that the recognition from respected institutions in Nigeria and across Africa speaks volume of Ovieteme's passion, dedication and professionalism.
The governor urged the youths of Bayelsa State to see Mr. Ovieteme George as a role model, encouraging them to emulate his discipline and remain committed to their respective careers, maintaining that his administration remains resolute to see more youths excel in their various areas of endeavours.
"There are many reporters all over Bayelsa, there are many reporters all over Nigeria, for you to be recognized by institutions that have been there for ages means a lot, BON has been there for ages and you are recognized as an outstanding reporter of the year and beyond the country, we celebrate with you, and we thank God for your life" Gov Diri stated.
"For the youths of Bayelsa, I call on you all to see Mr. Ovieteme George as a role model. These are the people to use as role models, go closer to them, speak with them, ask them how they did it, and how they got there today, and you'll get the answers" said Governor Diri.
Also, the awardee, Ovieteme, appreciated governor Diri for the support he has rendered to him as a reporter in the State, noting that the governor assisted him during his trying time when he suffered a fractured injury last year.