By Staff Reporter
Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri has directed the introduction of Scrabble in secondary schools across the state, describing the game as a valuable tool for improving students’ vocabulary, spelling and critical thinking. The governor announced the initiative on Sunday in Yenagoa during the closing ceremony of the sixth Diri National Scrabble Classic.
Diri said his personal experience with the game inspired the decision, noting that Scrabble helped develop his vocabulary, spelling ability and strategic thinking.He also announced an increase in the tournament’s total prize money from ₦20 million to ₦40 million, with the winner of next year’s Masters category set to receive ₦5 million.
The governor further pledged to push for the inclusion of Scrabble in the 2028 National Sports Festival, which Bayelsa will host, and promised support for Nigerian players preparing for the World Youth Scrabble Championship in Kenya.
President of the Nigeria Scrabble Federation, Bright Idahosa, commended the governor’s commitment to the sport, describing Nigeria as one of the world’s leading Scrabble nations.
Chairman of the Bayelsa State Scrabble Association, Daniel Alabrah, said this year’s tournament attracted more than 300 participants, including players from Ghana.In the competition, Abdulmumin Jimoh won the Masters category, while Felix Igolukumo, Godwin Angoye, Oladokun Esan and Godwin Joseph emerged winners in the Intermediate, Opens, Veterans and Students categories respectively. Governor Diri also presented ₦1 million each to two outstanding young participants.
