In a stirring declaration at the Peace Park—situated opposite the Bayelsa State Government House in Yenagoa—Deputy Governor Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo urged the Ogun State government to extend a gracious welcome as Bayelsa receives the National Sports Festival Torch of Unity. The event, held on May 5, 2025, set the stage for what promises to be an exhilarating 22nd National Sports Festival—aptly branded the Gateway Games—scheduled to take place in Abeokuta, Ogun State from May 16 to 30, 2025.
Speaking passionately, Senator Ewhrudjakpo highlighted Bayelsa’s burgeoning legacy in sports, citing the recent triumph at the maiden edition of the NDDC Sports Festival in Uyo. He confidently predicted that the Bayelsa contingent, comprised of emerging champions, will once again ascend the podium at the upcoming festival.
The spirit of unity and excellence was further echoed in the welcome address by Chief Baraladei Daniel Igali, Commissioner for the Bayelsa State Ministry of Sports Development. He stressed that the movement of the Torch of Unity from one state to another heralds the imminent arrival of the National Sports Festival, reinforcing Bayelsa’s status as a powerhouse of sporting glory in Nigeria.
Adding his voice to the chorus of optimism, Sir Braveman Wodi, Director of Sports for Bayelsa State, affirmed that the state team is fully prepared and primed for the tournament. The National Sports Commission’s representative, Mrs. Ikana Mbora, along with team members Ubong Sylvester and Njoku Peter, also chimed in by acknowledging that the arrival of the torch symbolizes the formal welcome extended to Bayelsa for this year’s grand sporting fiesta.
Watch our attached video for exclusive highlights from this electrifying event and get an inside look at Bayelsa’s march toward sporting excellence!
