The Bayelsa State Commissioner for Sports Development, Chief Baraladei Daniel Igali, has hailed Ambassador Grace Alagoa as an astute administrator and a pillar of the sports community in Bayelsa State.
Chief Igali made this commendation while leading staff and associates from the Ministry of Sports Development, Sports Council, and allied agencies to celebrate Ambassador Alagoa’s retirement at the Samson Siasia Sports Complex, Yenagoa.
He praised her unwavering dedication, integrity, and professionalism throughout her 35 years of meritorious service, noting that only truly committed civil servants reach the pinnacle of their careers without blemish, despite numerous challenges. Ambassador Alagoa was recognized for her distinguished service on the Bayelsa Queens FC Board and later as Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development.
The Commissioner extended an open invitation for her to attend any future Ministry event, describing her as a role model whose legacy will continue to inspire generations.
Also speaking at the event, Barr. Mrs. Biobelemoye Charles Onyema, mni, former Head of the Bayelsa State Civil Service, described Ambassador Alagoa as a committed technocrat and dependable ally who consistently demonstrated excellence and diligence in public service.
Dr. Menidin Nicholas Digha, Director in the Sports Development Ministry currently overseeing the duties of Permanent Secretary, noted that her leadership and warmth were deeply felt across the Ministry and its agencies. He added that her retirement leaves a vacuum that will not be easily filled.
The celebration began with a novelty football match between Bayelsa Queens FC and All Stars International FC of Yenagoa, ending in a thrilling goalless draw. Festivities continued with a vibrant retirement party at Ambassador Alagoa’s residence.
Dignitaries in attendance included:
- Mr. Ifiemi Borisei, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information, Orientation and Strategy
- Mr. Samuel Peter Okene, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education
- Mrs. Payeboye Lukoh, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Special Duties (Bayelsa West)
- Mr. Andrew Odeinyefa Aye, Director of Sports, Bayelsa State Sports Council
…alongside other senior officials and staff from the Ministry and its agencies.
Two major highlights of the evening were the ceremonial cutting of the retirement cake, and the presentation of a framed Bayelsa Queens FC jersey from the Commissioner to Ambassador Alagoa.
As the curtains drew on an evening filled with emotion and gratitude, many described Ambassador Alagoa’s retirement not as an end, but as the beginning of a new chapter—marked by rest, reflection, and the enduring impact of a life devoted to service.
— Amgbare Pereolotu
Information Officer, Bayelsa State Sports Council
