Bayelsa State, State administrative region in southern Niger Delta, Nigeria
Bayelsa State is an administrative region in the southern Niger Delta with eight local government areas and numerous waterways. The territory stretches across flat alluvial zones with mangroves, swamps, and river branches that wind through the region.
The region was carved from Rivers State on October 1, 1996 under General Sani Abacha's government and Yenagoa was named the capital. The creation of the new administrative unit followed demands from communities in the Niger Delta for stronger local representation.
The Ijaw people form the largest group and keep their connection to water alive through fishing and trade on the waterways. Boats serve as everyday transport and shape the rhythm of life in communities along the rivers and channels.
Most settlements are only reachable by boat or along narrow roads that sometimes flood during rainy season. Visitors should consider local guides to navigate the branching waterways and communities.
The Oloibiri Oilfield sits here and marks the spot where petroleum was first discovered in Nigeria in 1956. This discovery transformed the economy of the country and made oil the primary source of revenue.
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