As the countdown to the 23rd National Sports Festival (NSF) tagged the Gateway Games draws nearer, the Bayelsa State sports authorities are leaving no stone unturned in their preparation for the prestigious event. On Monday, December 16th, 2024, the Bayelsa State Commissioner for Sports Development, Champion Baraladei Daniel Igali, spearheaded a comprehensive facility tour at the Sampson Siasia Sports Complex to ensure everything is in top shape for the final phase of Team Bayelsa’s camping and training.
In a spirited show of commitment and support, Igali was accompanied by notable figures in the state’s sports industry, including Chief Patimidi Tukuru, former Director of Sports and now Permanent Secretary of the Bayelsa State Ministry of Water Resources, the current Director of Sports Sir Braveman Wodi, Bayelsa State Table Tennis Chairman Mr. Amaibi Ebikpolade Stow, and Mrs. Katherine Kemesuode, Head of Coaching, among others.
The tour encompassed several key facilities essential for the athletes’ preparation, including the athletes’ hostel, the multipurpose hall, the refurbished table tennis hall, and the ongoing construction of the wrestling gym. These inspections are crucial to ensure that Team Bayelsa’s athletes have access to the best possible training environments as they gear up to compete on the national stage.
Commissioner Igali expressed his confidence in Team Bayelsa’s readiness for the Gateway Games, slated to kick off on January 14th, 2025, in Abeokuta, Ogun State. He emphasized the importance of these facilities in honing the athletes’ skills and preparing them for the challenges ahead.
“We are committed to providing our athletes with the best possible resources and support. The National Sports Festival is a significant event, and we want to ensure that Team Bayelsa is fully prepared to excel and bring home medals,” Igali stated.
As Bayelsa ramps up its preparations, the excitement and anticipation for the NSF continue to build. The dedication and efforts of the Bayelsa sports authorities are set to pay off as they strive to achieve excellence and make the state proud at the 2025 National Sports Festival.
Stay tuned for more updates and insights as Team Bayelsa embarks on this thrilling journey towards sporting glory.
