Governor Diri Celebrates Silver Finish — Sets Eyes on 2028 Hosting Legacy
In a resounding show of appreciation and pride, Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State has rewarded Team Bayelsa contingent with substantial cash prizes for their stellar outing at the 2024 National Sports Festival, held in Abeokuta from May 16 to 30, 2025.
Despite the official medal standings placing Bayelsa third, Governor Diri declared that Team Bayelsa earned a rightful second place—just behind perennial champions Team Delta—citing his firsthand experience with questionable sports politics during the festival.
Victory Worth Its Weight in Millions
The Governor’s monetary awards reflect the scale of effort and excellence displayed by the team. Here’s a breakdown:
| Category | Cash Award (₦) |
|---|---|
| Individual Gold Medalist | 1,000,000 |
| Team Gold Medalist (per athlete) | 700,000 |
| Individual Silver Medalist | 500,000 |
| Team Silver Medalist (per athlete) | 350,000 |
| Individual Bronze Medalist | 300,000 |
| Team Bronze Medalist (per athlete) | 200,000 |
| Coaches & Secretaries (Gold) | 1,000,000 |
| Secretariat Staff | 700,000 |
| Support Staff | 200,000 |
Governor Diri made the announcement during the 166th Executive Council meeting in Yenagoa on July 23, 2025. This latest reward package comes after an earlier ₦20 million pledge made to the team in Abeokuta to celebrate their outstanding achievements.
A Vision Beyond the Podium
Beyond the cash prizes and accolades, Governor Diri emphasized his administration’s long-term commitment to sports development, highlighting Bayelsa’s bid to host the 2028 National Sports Festival. With a 25,000-capacity stadium under construction in Igbogene, the state is preparing to cement its legacy as a sports destination and continue building platforms for youth empowerment.
Bayelsa’s performance at NSF 2024 wasn’t just about medals—it was a statement. A reminder that true excellence can’t be dimmed by politics. And with Governor Diri’s unwavering support, Bayelsa athletes have every reason to believe the future will shine even brighter.
