The National Sports Commission (NSC) has indicated that Bayelsa State is well-equipped to host the 2028 National Sports Festival (NSF).
The NSC Director-General, Bukola Olapade, conveyed this during a visit to Yenagoa, where his delegation inspected the state’s sports and security infrastructure.
Olapade, who led a team of sports experts, including Chief Solomon Ogba and Olympian Yusuf Alli, expressed his confidence in Bayelsa’s bid after assessing various facilities, such as wrestling gyms, table tennis halls, and a new stadium under construction.
READ ALSO: NCS achieves record ₦89.2bn half-year revenue, intensifies anti-smuggling efforts
He lauded the state’s peaceful and hospitable environment, describing it as a “sleeping giant in sports” with remarkable potential.
“Bayelsa is even ready to host the event today more than the next host,” he said.
Speaking, the state governor Douye Diri affirmed that his administration’s significant investments in sports have prepared the state to host the prestigious festival.
He noted that the primary obstacle in the past, a lack of adequate sports facilities—is being addressed with the construction of a 25,000-capacity stadium, which is expandable to 35,000.
Diri assured the delegation that funding would not be an issue, as 30% of the construction cost has already been paid, with the contractor promising to complete the project by 2027.
Diri also highlighted the state’s improved security, citing the installation of Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras that operate 24 hours a day, which he said has led to a significant reduction in crime.
READ ALSO: NCS seizes over $1.1m at Kano Airport, arrests courier
He expressed optimism that Bayelsa would be chosen as the host, given its strong track record in sports, particularly in grassroots development initiatives like the Governor’s Prosperity Cup.
The governor emphasised that engaging youths through sports is a key part of his administration’s agenda.
