Abuja, Nigeria–The Director-General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Bukola Olapade, has expressed confidence in Bayelsa State’s readiness to host the 2028 National Sports Festival, citing the state’s infrastructure, security measures, and commitment to sports development.
Olapade gave the assurance on Tuesday during a courtesy visit to Governor Douye Diri at the Government House in Yenagoa. He led a high-level delegation that included Vice President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee and former President of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria, Solomon Ogba; Olympian and former long jump record holder, Yusuf Alli; Director of the National Sports Festival, Mrs. Oparah Thecla; and sports medicine expert, Dr. Oyudo Paul.
The delegation was in Bayelsa to conduct an on-the-ground assessment of key infrastructure, including medical facilities, sports venues such as wrestling and table tennis halls, and the 25,000-capacity stadium currently under construction.
“Bayelsa State has presented an impressive bid for the 2028 National Sports Festival,” Olapade stated. “From what we’ve seen, the state not only has the potential but could host the festival today if needed. The environment is peaceful and welcoming, and the existing facilities are commendable.”
He described Bayelsa as a “sleeping giant in Nigerian sports” and praised the state’s intentional efforts to grow its sports profile, noting its peaceful atmosphere and hospitality as added advantages for hosting a national event of such magnitude.
Responding to the NSC’s visit, Governor Douye Diri said the state was fully prepared to host the 2028 edition, citing significant investments in infrastructure, security, and youth development through sports.
He attributed the state’s previous inability to host the festival to inadequate facilities, a gap his administration is currently addressing. The governor confirmed that the 25,000-capacity stadium, expandable to 35,000, is on track for completion, with 30% of the contract sum already paid to the contractor, who has committed to delivering the project by 2027.
“We are determined to host the National Sports Festival, and our investments reflect that commitment,” Diri said. “Bayelsa is no longer lagging in infrastructure. In fact, we are building one of the best sporting facilities in the country.”
He also highlighted the state’s robust security apparatus, including the deployment of CCTV surveillance across Yenagoa to curb criminal activity and ensure the safety of residents and visitors.
Governor Diri emphasized the importance of grassroots sports development, pointing to initiatives like the Governor’s Prosperity Cup, wrestling competitions, and a state-of-the-art table tennis complex as examples of his administration’s commitment to nurturing young talent.
“We’re not a small player in the sports ecosystem,” the governor said. “Our state has produced athletes who have excelled nationally and internationally. Hosting the 2028 festival will not only be a continuation of that legacy but a boost to youth engagement under our Assured Prosperity Agenda.”
He concluded by reiterating Bayelsa’s reputation as a peaceful and welcoming state, stressing that inclusivity remains a cornerstone of his administration, with several cabinet members drawn from outside the state.
By Taiwo Olatinwo/ August 19,2025
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