ayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to youth development through sports, describing it as a vital tool for promoting healthy living, national unity and reducing youth restiveness.
The governor made the pledge on Saturday in Yenagoa during the 2026 Olympic Day celebration, where Bayelsa joined other states and countries in marking the annual event. He was represented by the Head of Service, Dr. Wisdom Ebiye Sawyer.
The Olympic Day Walk, themed “Let’s Move,” began at Ekeki Park and ended at the Samson Siasia Stadium, featuring demonstrations of various sports and the presentation of participation certificates.
Diri said the state government is investing in sports infrastructure, including a 30,000-seat stadium at Igbogene, a 5,000-seat stadium at Sampou in Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area, and a training pitch at Government House, Onopa.He also said reforms introduced at Bayelsa United are aimed at returning the club to the Nigeria Premier Football League by the end of the 2026/27 season.
Commissioner for Sports Development, Chief Daniel Igali, represented by Permanent Secretary Pereyi Efeke, said the Olympic movement promotes peace and unity through sports.
Other speakers, including International Olympic Committee representative Peace Epia, Director of Sports at the Bayelsa State Sports Council, Bibowei Lambert, and the Governor’s Technical Adviser on Sports Development, Sir Braveman Wodi, highlighted the importance of active lifestyles and the state’s preparations for the 2026 National Sports Festival in Enugu.
