Asaba, Delta State — September 6, 2025
Team Bayelsa is closing out the 9th National Youth Games in spectacular fashion, delivering a flurry of medals and unforgettable performances across multiple disciplines. With the finish line in sight, the contingent has proven that grit, talent, and teamwork are alive and thriving in the heart of the Niger Delta.
Chess Dominance: Four Golds, One Statement
In a dazzling display of mental prowess, Bayelsa’s chess team — featuring Ekunke Goodness, Ebiakpo Divine, Bayefa Oyienkeperemo, Aite Great, Woko Aye, and Ebiakpo Treasure — secured four gold medals, cementing the state’s rising dominance in intellectual sports. Their performance was not just strategic — it was surgical.
Abula Brilliance: Tension and Triumph
On the court, Bayelsa’s Abula team edged past Imo State in a nail-biting contest to claim one gold and one bronze, showcasing the team’s agility and composure under pressure.
Track Redemption: Teibowei Strikes Gold
In athletics, Samson Teibowei bounced back from a bronze finish in the 1500m to storm to gold in the 800m, clocking a personal best of 1:57.2. His comeback was a testament to resilience and raw determination.
Meanwhile, sprint sensation Perfect Faye, nursing injury concerns, couldn’t replicate his 100m gold magic and settled for silver in the 200m, narrowly losing to Lagos rival Emmanuel Akolo in a race that reignited one of the tournament’s fiercest rivalries.
Wrestling Sweep: Bayelsa Rules the Mat
The wrestling arena became a medal factory for Team Bayelsa, with Edubamo Perekoride (55kg freestyle), Tonye Kingsley (48kg freestyle), and Woyinkorikiye Andrew (49kg freestyle) all claiming gold medals in dominant fashion. Undakpo Andrew (40kg freestyle) added a bronze, ensuring Bayelsa’s grip on the mat remained unshaken.
Medal Tally Surge
Day 8 saw Team Bayelsa amass:
- 9 Gold
- 1 Silver
- 2 Bronze
Bringing the overall tally to:
- 17 Gold
- 10 Silver
- 24 Bronze
A total of 51 medals — a reflection of consistency, preparation, and the unyielding spirit of Bayelsa’s youth.
Leadership Applauds the Charge
Bayelsa State Director of Sports, Mr. Andrew Aye, described the medal haul as “the spirit of a true Bayelsan,” praising the athletes for their tenacity and the coaching staff for their commitment. He assured supporters that the team would continue to push until the final whistle of the tournament.
Reported by:
Bayelsa State Sports Council Media
