‘Our athletes ran, swam, wrestled, paddled, and fought their way into history’: Igali Hails Bayelsa Athletes for winning Niger Delta Sports Festival
Former World and Olympic Wrestling champion and now Bayelsa State Commissioner for Sports Development, Daniel Igali, has hailed Team Bayelsa for emerging overall champion at the inaugural Niger Delta Sports Festival, held in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital.
Team Bayelsa won 42 gold, 29 silver and 15 bronze medals to emerge overall champions ahead of Delta and Edo States.
In a statement personally signed on behalf of the Governor of Bayelsa State, His Excellency Senator Douye Diri, Igali lauded the team’s fierce determination and excellence.
‘Our athletes ran, swam, wrestled, paddled, and fought their way into history. From the thunder on the tracks to the brilliance on the mats and in the water, Bayelsa’s sons and daughters showcased the new, unstoppable spirit of our state — proud, prepared, and poised for greatness.’
‘On behalf of His Excellency Governor Douye Diri, I say welcome home, champions! Thank you for making Bayelsa the pride of the Niger Delta at this historic maiden edition of the festival. You stood tall at the centre of a region redefining its future — a future beyond oil, driven by talent, hard work, and excellence.’
‘To the Director of Sports, Braveman Wodi, our dedicated coaches, technical staff, secretaries, media team, and every single athlete who gave their all — you have etched your names into gold. We celebrate you. You have made us proud,’ said Igali in the statement.
With the 23rd National Sports Festival in Ogun state just under two months away, Igali has reminded the team to stay grounded and focused as the journey continues.
‘While we revel in this remarkable achievement, our eyes must now turn to the bigger challenge ahead — the National Sports Festival, Gateway 2025, in Ogun State. It’s time to rest, recover, and prepare to raise the bar once again.’
Delta and Edo States finished second and third respectively, with Delta securing 41 gold, 26 silver, and 32 bronze medals, while Edo claimed 23 gold, 35 silver, and 31 bronze medals.
