By Opusam Ekinisam Ete, Member, BYSSC Media Team
In what many described as a benchmark-setting seminar, the Hall of Fame at the Samson Siasia Sports Stadium in Yenagoa played host to one of the most impactful and intellectually rewarding events in recent Bayelsa sports history. The seminar, themed “Training on Doping and Drug Abuse,” drew an overwhelming crowd of athletes, coaches, secretaries, and seasoned sports administrators—all gathered under one roof with a single purpose: to get educated, informed, and reoriented.
Organized by the Bayelsa State Drug Abuse, Addiction Prevention and Rehabilitation Committee, in collaboration with the Ministry of Sports Development and the Bayelsa State Sports Council, the event could not have come at a better time. With Team Bayelsa in active preparation for the Gateway Games 2024 (National Sports Festival) set to hold in Ogun State from May 16 to 30, the awareness program served as a powerful morale booster and a critical step toward safeguarding athletes from performance-ruining mistakes.
From Morning Drills to Mental Thrills
Despite a tight schedule and the exhaustion of early morning training routines, the athletes demonstrated admirable discipline by staying put for a rigorous five-hour lecture session—a testament to their dedication to clean sportsmanship.
The atmosphere was serene, the audience attentive, and the silence in the hall spoke volumes of the gravity of the subject at hand. With seven engaging lectures delivered by seven distinguished speakers, the event was more than a lecture—it was an eye-opener.
Lecture Highlights: Knowledge from the Best
- Dr. Peter Owonaro, Chairman of the Drug Abuse Committee, kickstarted the session with an in-depth look at the dangers of drug abuse.
- Dr. Justice Akpotu, HOD Medical at the Sports Council, followed up with a crucial topic on Doping in Sports.
- Dr. Henry Prince Osain delivered a practical session on How to Stay Drug-Free During Sporting Activities.
- Dr. Charles Ronari discussed Healthy Coping Mechanisms for athletes under pressure.
- Dr. Justice Akpotu returned to highlight Testing Regulations that athletes must understand before competition.
- Dr. Otakho Daniel Orumwense brought in a refreshing angle on The Role of Food and Nutrition in Sports.
- Dr. Chai Francis wrapped up the day with a motivational and educational conclusion to the lecture series.
Leadership Presence and Institutional Support
The event was officially declared open by the Honourable Commissioner for Sports Development, Champion Chief Daniel Baraladei Igali, whose passion for athlete welfare and excellence was felt through both his presence and action.
Also in attendance was the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Grace Alagoa, whose exemplary leadership and presence from start to finish spoke volumes about her commitment to the cause. She was praised for her charisma, strength, and administrative prowess.
The Executive Director of Sports, Sir Braveman Eredoye Wodi, ably represented by the Director of Organizing, Mr. Aye Andrew, gave the vote of thanks, rounding off the day on a warm and graceful note.
A Lecture to Remember
For a program that began at 11:30 AM and ended by 3:12 PM without disruption or disengagement, it’s safe to say this was more than just a seminar—it was a turning point. The combination of content, timing, and audience readiness made this a landmark occasion in the lead-up to Bayelsa’s participation in the 2025 National Sports Festival.
Bayelsa is not just preparing to win medals, but to win clean—and this lecture proves the state is on the right path.
