Data Scientist Mienye Enters Bayelsa Governorship Race

A 37-year-old data scientist, Domor Mienye, has declared his intention to contest the Bayelsa State governorship election on the platform of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).

Mienye made the declaration on Wednesday in Yenagoa during consultations with youths, women groups, and community stakeholders, where he outlined his vision for the state.

He said Bayelsa requires a shift from traditional governance models to a structured, execution-driven system focused on measurable outcomes and sustainable development.

According to him, the state has significant potential in the blue economy, energy transition, and youth-driven innovation but needs leadership capable of translating these opportunities into tangible results.

He added that governance must be innovation-driven, youth-centred, and anchored on policies that deliver real economic benefits across communities.

Mienye, who was ranked among the top two per cent of global scientists by Stanford University and Elsevier in 2024 and 2025, said his background equips him to bring a new approach to governance.

Drawing from his experience in academia, industry, and work with a United Nations-supported organisation, he said he would introduce data-driven decision-making and performance tracking in public administration.

“My focus is on building systems where decisions are guided by data, performance is measured, and outcomes are visible. This will help restore trust and accelerate development,” he said.

He identified youth empowerment as central to his agenda, emphasising skills development, digital innovation, and entrepreneurship as drivers of economic growth.

“The future of Bayelsa lies with its young people. We must equip them with skills, support innovation, and create opportunities for meaningful participation in the economy,” he said.

Mienye also stressed the need for inclusive governance, noting that sustainable development requires the active participation of women across all sectors.

He further highlighted the importance of engaging Bayelsa indigenes in the diaspora, describing them as key to investment, innovation, and knowledge transfer.

“There is a strong community of Bayelsa people abroad with valuable global experience. We must create structured channels to harness their expertise for development,” he added.

He said his decision to join the race was driven by a commitment to credible leadership and practical solutions to reposition the state.

“This is about service and responsibility. Bayelsa can achieve more with the right leadership and a clear, structured approach to governance,” he said.

Mienye noted that his ongoing consultations are part of efforts to build consensus and shape a development agenda aligned with the aspirations of the people. (NAN)