Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has said the appointment of Tariye Gbadegesin as Chief Executive Officer of Climate Investment Funds (CIF), a global organisation, will inspire many from her home state of Bayelsa, Nigeria as well as Africa.

Diri stated this in a congratulatory message, which described Tariye as the proverbial apple that does not fall far off the tree, in reference to her parents, Prof. Turner and Prof. Miriam Isoun.

The Bayelsa governor said he received the news with excitement.

He said: “This is particularly heartwarming for us in Bayelsa State knowing that you are the first African to be appointed to such a globally-esteemed office.

“It is even more significant coming at a time global attention is focused on the issues of climate change, global warming and environmental pollution at the ongoing COP 28 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

“I am indeed proud that a daughter of Odi community in Kolokuma/Opokuma Council of our state has gone ahead to become a global citizen by dint of hard work and commitment to excellence.

“This appointment will inspire many of our people, Nigerians and Africans to continually strive for excellence.

“It is just as gratifying that your parents are renowned academics and trailblazers. As it is said, “the apple does not fall far off the tree. You are indeed a chip off the old block.”