Former Minister Turner Isoun Passes Away

Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State has shared his sorrow over the death of former Minister of Science and Technology, Turner Isoun.

Isoun, who was a professor, served as minister from 2000 to 2007.

This information came from a statement by Governor Diri's spokesman, Daniel Alabrah, released on Friday in Yenagoa.

The former minister, aged 87, passed away on 15 July in Abuja.

Governor Diri described the late professor of veterinary medicine as a giant in academics. He said Isoun's contributions to education and the nation are remarkable and significant.

He called Isoun's death a big loss to the Ijaw nation, the state, and the entire country.

Recalling Isoun's role as the first vice chancellor of the then University of Science and Technology (now Rivers State University) in the old Rivers State, Diri mentioned that Isoun laid a strong foundation for Nigeria’s first university of science and technology. He also helped spark an ICT movement in the country while serving as a minister.

"The Odi-born scientist will be greatly missed for his honesty, wise advice, and dedication to Ijaw culture," he said.

Diri extended the condolences of the Bayelsa State Government to Isoun’s family and community. He urged them to find comfort in the late elder statesman's valuable contributions to national progress.

Isoun, who was minister during former President Olusegun Obasanjo's administration, was known as a key player in Nigeria's space and ICT growth.

He led the creation of the National Information Technology Development Agency.

He also played a major role in establishing Galaxy Backbone Plc, a government ICT company aimed at unifying communication networks and building a strong national broadband system.

Under his leadership, Nigeria made significant strides in space technology, including launching the nation’s first satellites, NigeriaSat-1 and Nigcomsat 1R.

The cultural icon also served as chairman of the Ijaw National Congress (Central Zone). He was important in the formation of Bayelsa State from the old Rivers State in 1996.