In Bayelsa State, it is common for coaches, secretaries, athletes, and support staff of the Bayelsa State Sports Council to gather in a solemn assembly before every competition—an assembly steeped in reverence for God, whose mighty wonders have been evident among them. Leading this spiritual charge is Sir Braveman Eredoye Wodi, the Executive Director of Sports, who makes it a point to carry his lieutenants along to seek the face of God before any sporting confrontation.
Four years ago, when Sir Braveman Eredoye Wodi was appointed the substantive Executive Director of Sports, he recognized the challenges ahead and immediately ran to God for assistance. Answering his heartfelt supplication, the Almighty charged him with a simple yet profound directive: “Build me an altar here in the premises.” Embracing this divine calling, Wodi’s actions echo the biblical truth that “obedience is better than sacrifice.” His unwavering faith—and his habit of waiting upon the Lord—reminds us that those who trust in God will renew their strength and soar to great heights.
This spirit of divine guidance is evident in Bayelsa State’s transformative performance. From consistently finishing in the fourth and fifth positions at previous National Sports Festivals, Bayelsa has risen to capture a third podium finish in Edo 2020 and the silver cup at Asaba 2022. These remarkable achievements are not mere coincidences; they testify to the profound impact of inviting God’s presence into every battle Team Bayelsa faces.
Now, as Team Bayelsa prepares for Ogun State 2024 (organized in 2025), they stand poised to make history once again under the visionary leadership of Sir Braveman Eredoye Wodi. His rigorous training has prepared his soldiers physically and mentally, and now, spiritually, as he has led them to a transformative encounter with the Holy Spirit.
For, as the Bible proclaims, “Where the Spirit of God is, there is liberty,” and reminds us that “God is a spirit, and those who worship Him must do so in spirit and in truth.” With unwavering faith and divine backing, Team Bayelsa marches forward, ready to conquer new challenges and to continue their journey toward greatness.
Authored by Opusam Ekinisam Ete.
