A 37-year-old Data Scientist, Dr Domor Mienye, has declared his interest in contesting the Bayelsa State governorship election under the platform of the All Progressives Grand Alliance, as part of efforts to advance a new approach to governance focused on innovation, youth development, and sustainable economic growth.

Dr Mienye made this known during a series of engagements with a cross-section of youths, women groups, and community stakeholders in Yenagoa, where he outlined his vision for the development of the state and the need for credible, forward-looking leadership.

Speaking during the interactions, he emphasised that Bayelsa requires a shift from traditional governance models to a more structured and execution-driven approach that prioritises measurable outcomes and long-term development.

“Bayelsa has significant potential across sectors such as the blue economy, energy transition, and youth-driven innovation.

However, what is required is leadership that can translate these opportunities into tangible results through proper planning, execution, and accountability,” he said.

Dr Mienye, who has been recognised among the Top 2% Scientists globally by Stanford University and Elsevier in 2024 and 2025, noted that his experience across academia, industry, and within a United Nations-supported organisation positions him to bring a different perspective to governance in the state.

He added that his background in data and systems thinking enables him to approach governance as a structured process, rather than isolated policy initiatives.

“My focus is on building systems that work—where government decisions are guided by data, performance is tracked, and outcomes are visible to the people. This is how we can restore trust and drive real development,” he stated.

Addressing youths during the engagement, Dr Mienye highlighted the importance of creating opportunities through skills development, digital innovation, and entrepreneurship.

“The future of Bayelsa lies with its young people. We must create an environment where they are equipped with the right skills, supported to innovate, and given opportunities to contribute meaningfully to the economy,” he said.

He also engaged women groups on the need for inclusive governance, noting that sustainable development cannot be achieved without active participation and empowerment of women across economic and social sectors.

“Women play a critical role in community development and economic stability. Any serious development agenda must prioritise inclusion and create pathways for women to thrive,” he added.
Dr Mienye further emphasised the importance of engaging Bayelsa indigenes in the diaspora, describing them as a valuable resource for investment, innovation, and knowledge transfer.

“There is a strong community of Bayelsans and Nigerians abroad with global experience. We must create structured channels to harness their expertise and connect them to development initiatives at home,” he said.

He reiterated that his decision to declare interest was driven by a commitment to contribute to the state’s development through credible leadership and practical solutions.

“This is about service, responsibility, and the opportunity to bring fresh thinking into governance. I believe Bayelsa can achieve much more with the right leadership and a clear, structured approach,” he said.

The engagements form part of a broader consultation process aimed at building consensus, engaging stakeholders, and shaping a development agenda that reflects the needs and aspirations of the people of Bayelsa State.