- Agency Report
Bayelsa Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Daniel Igali, has explained that Team Bayelsa is excelling at the ongoing National Sports Festival (NSF) in Ogun because of the state’s deliberate planning and investment in sports.
Igali made the disclosure in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday at the MKO Sports Arena in Abeokuta.
The commissioner told NAN that Gov. Douye Diri of Bayelsa, himself a former commissioner for sports, has made sports a key pillar of his administration.
The former Olympic gold medallist said that the target of the state was to surpass its previous performances.
“Four years ago, we placed third, our first time ever on the federal table. Two years ago in Asaba, we came second. So, no one should be surprised about where we are today.
“Where we are now is the result of deliberate planning and investment—thanks to our governor.
“We are probably the only state currently investing about N95 billion to build a modern stadium.
“Over the past few years, we’ve developed significant sporting infrastructure, and the sports sector enjoys a healthy budget comparable to the best in the country.
“That’s why you’re seeing the modest but consistent achievements we’ve made in sports. It’s all due to the vision and commitment of the governor, who doesn’t just talk—he backs his directives with the necessary funding,” he said.
Igali stated that beyond infrastructure, Diri believed that every achievement should be rewarded.
According to him, in Bayelsa, athletes, especially gold medallists, receive instant gratification.
He recalled that at the last National Sports Festival, Bayelsa was the only state where every gold medallist received ₦1 million as soon as they returned.
“If you’re a Bayelsa athlete, even if you compete for Nigeria internationally, the state government supports you.
“If an athlete is injured, they get medical care immediately, surgery the same evening if necessary.
“That’s why Bayelsa athletes are willing to give their all. They know that the state is standing solidly behind them,” he added. NAN