The Bayelsa State Government has expressed satisfaction with the steady growth of table tennis in the state under the Prosperity Administration. Governor Douye Diri, represented by Deputy Governor Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, commended the strides made during the inauguration of the newly refurbished Bayelsa State Table Tennis Association training hall at Samson Siasia Stadium, Yenagoa.
Governor Diri emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting the association in preparation for the National Sports Festival in Abeokuta, Ogun State, with aspirations to surpass its previous performance in Asaba, Delta State. He praised the association’s chairman, Mr. Ama-ebi Ebikpolade Stow, for his dedication and transformative leadership, describing him as a role model for Bayelsa youths.
Mr. Stow’s initiatives include a nearly completed state-of-the-art training facility at the Oxbow-Lake Area, set for inauguration in two weeks, and the newly renovated training hall for under-16 able athletes, para-athletes, and Deaf athletes. Governor Diri assured continued government support, urging Mr. Stow to fulfill his promise of securing three gold medals at the upcoming festival.
Commissioner for Sports Development, Dr. Daniel Igail, commended the Deputy Governor for his detailed approach and collaborative relationship with the Ministry of Sports. He noted Mr. Stow’s remarkable contributions and affirmed the government’s backing for further advancements in table tennis.
In separate remarks, Chairman House Committee on Sports, Barr Tare Porri, and Director of Sports, Sir Braveman Wodi, lauded Mr. Stow’s leadership and initiatives, highlighting his positive impact on the sport in Bayelsa.
