The Bayelsa State Government has declared Friday, April 10, 2026, a work-free day and ordered the closure of markets across the state ahead of the scheduled visit of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The announcement was made on Thursday in Yenagoa by the Commissioner for Information, Orientation and Strategy, Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai. She said the directive is part of preparations to receive the President, who is expected to embark on a one-day official visit to the state.
Koku-Obiyai noted that the state government and residents were fully prepared to welcome the President, whom she described as the “father of the nation” and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“As we all know, the state is ready, and we are ready as a people to receive the father of the nation, our father and leader in the President and Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, who will be in the state on a one-day visit to inaugurate four legacy projects,” she said.
She explained that the declaration of a public holiday is aimed at allowing workers, traders, and residents to fully participate in the activities lined up for the President’s visit. According to her, the government expects a large turnout of residents to give the visiting President a warm reception.
“In view of this, the state government has declared tomorrow, Friday, April 10, 2026, a work-free day to enable workers and other residents of the state to participate in the programmes lined up for the one-day official visit to Bayelsa State,” Koku-Obiyai added.
As part of the measures announced, markets across the state are to remain closed for the day, a directive the government said is necessary to ensure orderliness, security, and maximum participation during the visit. Traders and business owners have been urged to comply fully with the directive in the interest of a successful event.
During his visit, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is expected to inaugurate several key infrastructure projects described by the state government as “legacy projects.” These include a state-owned gas turbine facility located at Opolo-Elebele, which is expected to boost electricity generation and improve power supply in the state.
Another major project slated for inauguration is a 60-kilometre dual carriageway stretching from Onopa to the LNG axis. The road project is considered a critical infrastructure development aimed at improving transportation, enhancing connectivity, and supporting economic activities within the state and beyond.
In addition, the President will commission a 630-metre bridge linking Angiama to Oporoma in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area. The bridge is expected to significantly ease movement for residents in riverine communities, many of whom have long relied on water transportation.
Government officials have described the projects as transformative, noting that they are part of broader efforts to drive development and improve the quality of life for residents of Bayelsa State.
Koku-Obiyai emphasized that the visit presents an opportunity for the state to showcase its achievements and strengthen its relationship with the federal government. She called on residents to come out en masse to welcome the President and participate in the ceremonies.
“The government urges all residents, including traders, youths, and community leaders, to turn out in large numbers to give the President a rousing welcome and to witness the commissioning of these important projects,” she said.
Security agencies are also expected to be on high alert during the visit, with arrangements in place to ensure the safety of the President, dignitaries, and residents. Traffic management measures may also be implemented in parts of the state capital and surrounding areas to facilitate smooth movement.
While the directive for a work-free day and market closure may temporarily disrupt economic activities, the government maintains that the measures are necessary to guarantee a hitch-free visit and to allow citizens to be part of what it described as a significant moment in the state’s development journey.
Residents have been advised to adhere strictly to all guidelines issued by the government and security agencies, as authorities work to ensure that the President’s visit is conducted without incident.
The visit by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is expected to draw attention to ongoing development efforts in the Niger Delta region, particularly in Bayelsa State, where infrastructure expansion and energy projects remain key priorities for both the state and federal governments.
