Born on 16th November 1952 in Amassoma, Southern Ijaw LGA of Bayelsa State, Chief Diepreye Solomon Peter Alamieyeseigha—fondly remembered as the Governor General of the Ijaw Nation—lived a life dedicated to service, leadership, and advocacy for his people.
He began his career in the Nigerian Air Force in 1974 after attending Bishop Dimeari Grammar School and the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA). He served meritoriously in logistics and supply across various commands, rising to the rank of Squadron Leader before retiring in 1992.
Transitioning into civil service, he served as Sole Administrator of Pabod Supplies and later as Head of Budget, Planning, Research and Development at NAFCON.
In 1999, Alamieyeseigha made history as the first Executive Governor of Bayelsa State under the PDP and was re-elected in 2003. His administration was marked by bold infrastructure projects, educational development, healthcare expansion, and passionate advocacy for Resource Control and Fiscal Federalism, influencing the approval of the 13% derivation principle.
Despite facing legal battles that led to imprisonment, he was granted a state pardon in 2013 by President Goodluck Jonathan.
His legacy lives on through:
✅ Creation of 24 Rural Development Authorities (RDAs)
✅ Establishment of Niger Delta University (2001)
✅ Founding of BYCAS, School of Nursing (Tombia), School of Health Technology (Ogbia)
✅ Construction of major roads and the 500-bed hospital in Yenagoa
✅ Numerous scholarships and investments in human capital
✅ Advocacy that amplified the Ijaw voice on the national stage
He passed away on 10th October 2015 at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching.
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