Yenagoa, Nigeria — The Acting Director of Sports in Bayelsa State, Mr. Andred Odeinyefa Aye, has issued a rallying call to all stakeholders in the state’s sporting ecosystem to maintain a proactive and gold-winning mindset as Team Bayelsa continues to dominate national competitions.
Speaking during a strategic meeting with heads of various sports disciplines and ancillary staff at the Multipurpose Hall of the Sampson Siasia Sports Complex, Mr. Aye emphasized the need for unwavering commitment and consistency. He noted that Bayelsa State has earned a reputation as the team to beat, and rival states are intensifying efforts to dethrone its dominance.
Despite challenges such as limited facilities and outdated equipment, Mr. Aye urged coaches, athletes, and officials to remain focused and give their best, stressing that victory is achieved through resilience and sustained performance.
He commended the steadfast support of the State Governor, Senator Douye Diri; the Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo; and the Commissioner for Sports Development, Chief Baraladei Daniel Igali. Their continued investment and confidence in Team Bayelsa, he said, have translated into consistent funding and government backing for sporting engagements across the state.
During the meeting, Mr. Aye also announced key leadership changes aimed at strengthening the state’s sports administration:
- Mrs. Jean Ebi Aprala – Appointed Secretary of the Council (formerly Head of Media and Publicity)
- Coach Prince Deidei Enebidou – Head of Coaching
- Mr. Dimie Okara – Head of Zones
- Coach Catherine Sasuode – Head of Media and Publicity (formerly Head of Coaching)
- Mr. Bibowei Lambert – Head of Special Duties (formerly Head of Planning, Research & Statistics)
- Coach Wilfred Felegha – Head of Program Athletes (formerly Head of Institutional Sports)
- Coach Pere Forster – Head of Organizing (formerly Head of Program Athletes)
These appointments reflect a strategic reshuffle designed to optimize performance and reinforce Bayelsa’s position as a powerhouse in Nigerian sports.
As the state prepares for upcoming national events, Mr. Aye reaffirmed his commitment to fostering excellence, unity, and a winning culture across all sporting disciplines.
