Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to hosting the 24th National Sports Festival (NSF) in 2028, describing it as one of his top priorities. Central to this ambitious goal is the completion of the 25,000-seater stadium at Igbogene, which is set to become the crown jewel of Bayelsa’s sports infrastructure.
Governor Diri made this declaration on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, during the 166th Executive Council Meeting at Government House, Yenagoa. The occasion marked a warm reception for Team Bayelsa, fresh from their spirited showing at the 22nd National Sports Festival in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
“The glory of sports has come to stay in Bayelsa,” Diri stated, emphasizing the state’s rising stature in Nigeria’s sporting landscape.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner for Sports Development, Chief Baraladei Daniel Igali, provided insight into the team’s experiences at the games—highlighting not only athletic triumphs but also challenges ranging from politics to questionable officiating. Despite those setbacks, Igali maintained that Bayelsa’s current sports dominance guarantees podium finishes in any future competition.
The event ended on a celebratory note, as Governor Diri handed out cash rewards to medalists, coaches, support staff, and team secretaries—recognizing the collective effort that propelled Bayelsa into national limelight.
