Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has appointed gospel musician Asu Ekiye as the Izon Language Ambassador. The announcement was made during Ekiye’s musical concert and album launch, “Ebikamo Experience,” held on Sunday in Yenagoa. Diri stated that the appointment recognizes Ekiye’s contributions to preserving the Ijaw language through music, aligning with his administration’s commitment to preventing the language from fading. He praised the musician’s dedication to cultural preservation and highlighted his government’s efforts in training Ijaw teachers, pledging further initiatives to promote the language. His words, “I would have been here earlier but was told that the place was not ready. When it started raining, I told the Chief of Staff and SA Religion to represent me. But immediately I made that decision, the rain stopped. “On behalf of our government of Assured Prosperity, I want to say a big thank you to you and your team. They say a prophet is not recognised in his hometown but here you are acceptable. When you are blessed by God, nobody can take it. Haa Izon! is a call for unity and not a call for war. “I am happy with your success story as an Ijaw gospel musician and I have, therefore, appointed you as Ambassador of Ijaw Language. My office will write you. “I challenge everyone, particularly parents, to teach their children our language and urge them to join hands with the government in our drive to preserve the language from extinction. “My dear people of Bayelsa, our state is peaceful because Ijaw people are peaceful. Let us support the state government and the Federal Government. “We have started proving that the best place to live in is Bayelsa. The way we have given Nigeria oil and gas, Bayelsa is also the cradle of marine and blue economy and this is what Nigeria is missing in Bayelsa. So, we thank the federal government for creating the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy. Ekiye captivated the audience with his songs and vibrant dance moves, even drawing the governor to the dance floor. The event was graced by notable dignitaries, including the state Chief Judge, Justice Matilda Ayemieye; House of Assembly member for Yenagoa Constituency 1, Ayibanegiyefa Egba; Chief of Staff, Government House, Dr. Peter Akpe; and Deputy Chief of Staff, Mr. Irorodamie Komonibo. Also present were renowned Ijaw music icons, Barrister Smooth and Alfred Izonebi, among others.