The Bayelsa State government is working tirelessly to ensure its athletes dominate the upcoming National Sports Festival in Abeokuta, Ogun State, next year.
Acting Governor Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo provided this assurance during a meeting with coaches, athletes, and staff of the Ministry of Sports Development and the Sports Council at the indoor hall of the Samson Siasia Stadium in Yenagoa.
He emphasized that the meeting was crucial following the success at the last National Sports Festival in Asaba, Delta State. The state aims to build on these achievements with early preparation for the athletes.
Since 2020, the performance of Bayelsa’s athletes has improved significantly due to the dedication of both athletes and coaches. Ewhrudjakpo urged the National Sports Commission to avoid unconventional practices in result collation from various sports federations.
Senator Ewhrudjakpo highlighted that the welfare of athletes remains the government’s top priority. He stressed that the prosperity administration uses sports as a tool to curb crime and criminality in the state.
He noted that the athletes’ performance from 2020 to date reflects their determination. The meeting was seen as an ideal time to discuss the National Sports Festival, acknowledging the government’s awareness of the athletes’ challenges.
In response to requests, the acting governor announced that a new bus would be provided for the Sports Council’s trips, along with equipment for the athletes’ training.
Regarding facilities, he acknowledged that while the state is not yet where it should be, progress is being made. Construction of a wrestling gym and basketball courts at St. Jude Girls Secondary and Bishop Dimeari Grammar School (BDGS) in Yenagoa is underway.
Senator Ewhrudjakpo assured the athletes that the government would soon employ those who are eligible, rather than providing stipends.
“The issue of a bus is not unique to you; even the state cultural troupes need a bus. When the governor returns, he will address these issues as they are essential for your work,” he stated.
“We will do everything possible to provide the necessary equipment. Your memo for equipment has already been sent to the governor, and we will consider its importance.”
“Regarding the facilities you mentioned, we are not yet where we should be, but we are moving in the right direction. Work has resumed on the wrestling gym, and we are constructing basketball courts at BDGS and St. Jude Girls Secondary to decentralize these facilities.”
Earlier, in a welcome address, Commissioner for Sports Development Dr. Daniel Igali appreciated the acting governor for his support, emphasizing that Bayelsa’s success story would be incomplete without his supervision.
He explained that the meeting demonstrated the government’s commitment to surpassing the previous record in Asaba.
Director of Sports, Bayelsa State Sports Council, Sir Braveman Wodi, described the day as special. He noted that the meeting would motivate the athletes to give their best at the National Sports Festival and that the visit had resolved many issues ahead of the competition.
