By Amgbare Ekaunkumo, Yenagoa
The Director of Sports, Bayelsa State Sports Council, Sir Braveman Wodi, has called on youths to channel their energy into sports as a constructive alternative to crime and social vices.
Speaking on Friday at the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) Capacity Building Training Programme on Security held at the DSP Alamieyeseigha Banquet Hall in Yenagoa, Wodi emphasized the role of sports in promoting national unity and discouraging anti-social behavior.
He credited the Bayelsa State Prosperity Administration for effectively leveraging sports to curb crime and cultism, particularly among young people. Citing statistics from the Bayelsa State Police Command, Wodi noted that crime rates in Yenagoa drop to zero during the popular “Prosperity Cup,” thanks to the wide participation of youths in the tournament.
“Sport remains the surest way to give our youths a better future,” he stated.
Wodi commended the PCRC Bayelsa State Command for organizing the event and reaffirmed the Sports Council’s commitment to continued collaboration with the committee in promoting security and youth development.
He also underscored the state government’s dedication to grassroots sports development, pointing to ongoing construction and renovation of community sports facilities across Bayelsa. These efforts, he said, are aimed at making sports accessible to youths in both urban and rural areas, helping them discover and develop their talents while building discipline.
During the event, Wodi was honored with a certificate of recognition by the PCRC in appreciation of his contributions as a State Adviser to the Bayelsa State Command.
He expressed gratitude for the recognition and pledged to continue using sports as a tool for social transformation and youth empowerment across the state.
