Amgbare Ekaunkumo, Yenagoa
Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State has lauded the remarkable achievements of the state’s athletes at the ongoing National Sports Festival in Ogun State, where Team Bayelsa holds second place on the medals table, trailing only Delta State.
Governor Diri highlighted the role of sports in showcasing the state’s potential and engaging youths constructively, urging the athletes to strive for first place.
Speaking during the 164th State Executive Council meeting on Wednesday in Government House Yenagoa, Diri commended the athletes for their outstanding performance, attributing their success to his administration’s strategic investments in sports development.
He also praised Bayelsa Queens for securing the Nigerian Women Professional League title and qualifying for the CAF Women’s Champions League, while acknowledging Bayelsa United’s impressive run in the Nigeria Professional Football League.
The governor reaffirmed his commitment to elevating sports infrastructure, announcing that over N100 billion has been allocated for the construction of an Olympic-standard stadium in the state.
This project underscores his administration’s dedication to fostering a vibrant sports culture and providing world-class facilities for athletes.
Diri also called on Bayelsa youths to steer clear of cultism and other social vices, encouraging them to seize opportunities in sports and skills acquisition programs.
He commended their exemplary behavior during the recent Boro Day anniversary and urged them to preserve the intellectual heritage of the Ijaw struggle.
The governor emphasized that such investments and initiatives are designed to empower the next generation and position Bayelsa as a hub for sports and cultural excellence.
