The Bayelsa State Government has pledged commitment to building more sports facilities in the state as preparations for a 25,000-capacity Fifa approved stadium kick-off.
The Honourable Commissioner for Sports Development, Bayelsa State, Daniel Igali, made the statement while speaking on Silverbird Rhythm 94.7 FM News and Current Affairs programme, Viewpoint over the weekend.
According to Igali, establishing new facilities is a vital tool to foster unity, improve public health, and create opportunities for talent discovery and economic growth in the state.
“We are planning for a 25,000 seater capacity multipurpose stadium, and that means it’s not going to be for only soccer. It will be one of the most modern stadiums because we will have a swimming pool, basketball, badminton, table, and long tennis courts, among others.
“The stadium will be Fifa complainant, VAR complainant, and it will be accessible for people with disabilities. So, we are looking at a stadium that will attract international competitions and something Bayelsans would be proud about.” Igali noted.
Honourable Daniel Igali expressed hope that the new Stadium and other sporting projects would be completed in no distant time due to the passonate drive of His Excellency, Governor Douye Diri, in providing a platform where the state’s budding athletes can practice and showcase their skills.
“One thing different with this Government led by His Excellency, Senator Douye Diri is that he doesn’t just give instructions. He ensures that such instructions are backed up with actual funding. So, before the expiration of the Governor’s tenure, these projects would be completed. ” Igali assured.
The World and Olympic champion also hinted that the government is currently undertaking multiple sporting projects, including Basketball Courts for multiple time Nestle Milo Secondary School National Basketball champions, St Jude’s Girls Secondary School and Bishop Dimeari Grammar School
While other projects at the Ijaw National Academy and Asoama, as well as mapped out areas for sporting facilities in the state, will commence soon.
