The Director of Sports at the Bayelsa State Sports Council, Sir Braveman Wodi, has credited the state’s rising profile in Nigerian sports to the unwavering support and passion of Governor Douye Diri for sports development.
Speaking to journalists in Abeokuta, Ogun State, during the just-concluded National Sports Festival (NSF), Sir Wodi noted that since Governor Diri assumed office, he has remained committed to funding sports at all levels.
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“Governor Diri has not looked back since he assumed office. His investment in sports has been massive. He is truly a blessing to Bayelsa State,” Wodi said.
Sir Wodi also highlighted the synergy between himself, the Commissioner for Sports Development, Dr. Daniel Igali, and the ministry’s leadership under Deputy Governor Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, who supervises the sports ministry. He said their combined efforts have created a seamless working environment that fosters success.
“The relationship and support we enjoy from Dr. Igali and Senator Ewhrudjakpo have made our job easier. This unified leadership is key to our achievements,” he noted.
Wodi emphasised that Bayelsa’s success is not built on athlete poaching but on robust grassroots development programs. He cited the “Bayelsa Future Aces Programme” as a major initiative designed to discover and nurture homegrown talent.
“Unlike many states, we don’t rely on poaching athletes. We focus on discovering and developing our own through structured programs,” he said.
Reflecting on Bayelsa’s performance at the Gateway 2024 NSF, Wodi expressed appreciation to the athletes, coaches, management, and secretaries for their hard work and resilience despite the challenges faced during the competition.
“We may have fallen short of the top position, but our athletes gave their best. Their determination and commitment are commendable,” he said.
