Bayelsa State’s consistent success in national sporting events has been credited to the unwavering commitment of Governor Douye Diri to sports development. This was disclosed by the Director of Sports, Bayelsa State Sports Council, Sir Braveman Wodi, during an interview with journalists in Abeokuta, Ogun State, at the just-concluded National Sports Festival.
Sir Wodi described Governor Diri as a “blessing to Bayelsa and beyond,” noting that since assuming office, the governor has prioritized sports funding and infrastructure. “His support has gone beyond just finances — it’s about genuine passion and vision for youth development through sports,” Wodi remarked.
He also highlighted the synergy between the Ministry of Sports Development, led by Olympic gold medalist Dr. Daniel Igali, and the State Sports Council, under the supervision of the Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, as instrumental to Bayelsa’s thriving sports scene.
According to Sir Wodi, all sporting associations in the state are currently active, thanks to a deliberate policy of youth engagement and capacity building. He stressed that Bayelsa relies on homegrown talent, not athlete poaching, citing the “Bayelsa Future Aces Programme” as a major initiative for talent discovery and grassroots development.
Reflecting on the team’s performance at the National Sports Festival, Wodi commended the athletes, coaches, and support staff for their resilience and determination. “Though we fell short of clinching the top spot, our athletes gave their all under challenging conditions,” he stated.
He concluded by urging the entire Bayelsa sports community to use the experience as motivation. “Now is not the time to look back, but to rise, refocus, and march forward with renewed determination,” he said.
