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From Femi Folaranmi, Yenagoa
The Commissioner for Sports Development in Bayelsa State, Hon Daniel Igali, has expressed optimism that Team Bayelsa will excel in the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) games scheduled for Benin, Edo State capital
Igali, who spoke at the Samson Siasia Stadium while receiving the Games Torch on behalf of the state government, described the symbolic handover as confirmation that the countdown to the games has begun.
While noting that Bayelsa State emerged as the overall champions at the inaugural edition of the competition, which featured senior athletes, he stated that this year’s event is reserved for Under-19 competitors, presenting a different challenge.
The Commissioner assured that the state government would continue to provide the necessary logistics, technical backing, and welfare packages to ensure Team Bayelsa competes strongly and maintains its reputation as a sports powerhouse in the Niger Delta.
“Let me thank the organisers, the Niger Delta Development Commission, and Dunamis Icon Limited for initiating the games.
“With this initiative, we have placed the Niger Delta, they placed the Niger Delta states ahead of every other region in the country. So, we commend them for this, and we hope they will even host a bigger and better tournament this time.
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“Team Bayelsa will excel at the Niger Delta Games in Benin and top the overall medals table just as they did in the inaugural edition in Uyo last year. We promise we will provide the necessary support for the athletes to make the state proud.
“While the previous edition was for senior athletes, which Bayelsa won, this year’s Under-19 category comes with its own dynamics. However, we remain committed to giving our young athletes the best possible support to excel,” Igali stated.
He also expressed gratitude to the Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, for his sustained investment in sports development, noting that the administration’s support has continued to yield positive results across various competitions.
Igali further commended the Director of Sports, the coaches, and the athletes for their dedication in preparation for the games.
In his remarks, the Liaison Officer to Bayelsa State, Mr. Loveday Herbert, speaking on behalf of the organisers, assured that adequate accommodation and welfare arrangements have been put in place for the state’s contingent.
He disclosed that Team Bayelsa will be housed at the Games Village located within Benson Idahosa University, Benin City, expressing confidence that the state will enjoy a hitch-free and successful outing at the competition.
The NDDC Games are designed to discover and nurture young sporting talents across the Niger Delta region while fostering unity and healthy competition among participating states.
