The Bayelsa State Canoeing Association has concluded its final trials ahead of the Niger Delta Sports Festival (NDSF) 2025, set to take place from April 1st to 9th in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
The selection trials, held at Peace Park, Yenagoa, saw five male and four female athletes qualify for the prestigious regional event. Among those selected are Goodluck Kingsley, Education Timbiri, Igole Ebimobowei, Sinivie Alfred, and Goodluck Independent (male), alongside Tubolayefa Sawyer, Esther Beke, Vivian Timbiri, and Margaret Alaowei (female).
Notably, two standout canoeing athletes—Tubolayefa Sawyer (female) and Goodluck Kingsley (male)—are products of the Gloria Diri Foundation (GDF), a leading initiative dedicated to sports development in Bayelsa State.
Athletes Unveiled by Gloria Diri Foundation
At the unveiling ceremony in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State First Lady, Dr. (Mrs.) Gloria Diri, represented by the Foundation’s Director of Sports, Mr. Ebiki Timitimi, reaffirmed the foundation’s commitment to nurturing young talents.
“The Gloria Diri Foundation is proud to support these two exceptional athletes as they represent Bayelsa at the NDDC Sports Festival. We will provide them with the necessary kits and support to help them achieve their dreams,” she stated.
She emphasized that this development aligns with the foundation’s vision of empowering Bayelsa’s youth through sports, expressing her passion for discovering and developing talents that will one day represent Nigeria on the global stage.
Confidence in the Athletes’ Performance
Also speaking, Secretary of the Canoeing Association, Mrs. Erekposeigha Timitimi-Funwei, and Head Coach Inifa Gagbe expressed confidence in the athletes’ abilities. They highlighted the dedication and commitment shown by the competitors over the past two weeks, believing it will translate into strong performances at the festival.
They further appreciated Dr. (Mrs.) Gloria Diri for her unwavering support, describing her as a visionary leader dedicated to sports development.
Athletes’ Reactions
In separate interviews, Tubolayefa Sawyer and Goodluck Kingsley expressed gratitude to God and the Gloria Diri Foundation for the opportunity to compete at the festival. They pledged to give their best effort and bring home gold medals for Bayelsa.
With the foundation’s backing and the athletes’ determination, Bayelsa State looks set to make a strong statement at the Niger Delta Sports Festival 2025.
