Preparation meets opportunity, and success is born—this is the mantra driving Team Bayelsa as they intensify efforts for the upcoming Niger Delta Sports Festival, scheduled to hold in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, from April 3–10, 2025. The festival will see participation from all nine Niger Delta states, and Team Bayelsa is leaving no stone unturned in their bid to shine brightly on the medal table.
Under the transformative leadership of His Excellency, Sen. Douye Diri, and Deputy Governor Sen. Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, sports development in Bayelsa has reached unprecedented heights. Their team of astute administrators, including Honourable Commissioner of Sports Development Champion Daniel Baraladei Igali and Executive Director of Sports Sir Braveman Eredoye Wodi, have positioned the state as a formidable force in national sports. The duo’s proactive and results-driven leadership has not only earned numerous laurels for the state but also elevated Bayelsa’s status in the national sports landscape.
In a closed-door meeting held at the Bayelsa State Ministry of Sports Development, Commissioner Igali, who also chairs the state’s contingent for the festival, urged committee members, coaches, and sports association secretaries to fine-tune their preparations. He emphasized the importance of scouting and securing top-tier athletes and received enthusiastic assurances from the coaches, who promised to deliver commendable performances.
Adding to the momentum, Igali announced that funds for local government and state trials had been released by the Niger Delta Development Commission, sparking excitement among the team. The trials are set to kick off immediately, ensuring the selection of the best athletes to represent Bayelsa across multiple sports categories, including football, wrestling, swimming, athletics, and more.
The meeting concluded on a high note, with the Commissioner expressing confidence in the team’s ability to make history once again. “Our athletes have proven time and again that they are capable of achieving greatness, and I have no doubt they will continue this trend,” he said.
As Team Bayelsa marches forward, buoyed by meticulous preparation and unwavering determination, the state looks poised to make a significant impact at the Niger Delta Sports Festival. The stage is set, and Bayelsa is ready to shine.
