Former President Goodluck Jonathan has expressed disappointment over the abandonment of key development projects he initiated during his time as governor of Bayelsa State, following his elevation to vice president in 2007.
Speaking on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at the inauguration of the Best Western Plus Hotel in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital, Jonathan lamented that several hotel projects launched under his administration to boost tourism and stimulate the state’s economy were left incomplete by successive governments.
According to Punch, the former president disclosed that his administration had commenced the construction of one five-star and two three-star hotels as part of a broader strategy to position Bayelsa as a hub for tourism and hospitality. However, he noted that the projects were abandoned after his departure from office.
“When I was governor of Bayelsa State, I initiated the construction of one five-star and two three-star hotels, but immediately I became Vice President, the projects were abandoned.
“That has always been the problem we face in this country; lack of continuity. Many projects that could have transformed the economy of our states are left to rot because every new government wants to start its own.”
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Jonathan stressed that the discontinuity of projects across changing administrations remains a major challenge to Nigeria’s development, leading to significant waste of public funds and missed opportunities.
He commended the current Bayelsa State government for taking steps to revive the hospitality sector, and urged leaders at all levels to prioritize continuity and sustainability in governance.
According to him, developing modern infrastructure especially in the tourism and hospitality sectors is vital for job creation, attracting investment, and ensuring long-term economic growth not just for Bayelsa, but for the entire Niger Delta region.
