The Honourable Commissioner for Sports Development in Bayelsa State, Dr. Daniel Igali, has expressed his full support for the Bayelsa State athletes as they prepare to compete in the 2024 Youth Games.
Scheduled from September 9th to 21st in Asaba, Delta State, the games will serve as a platform for young talents across Nigeria to showcase their abilities.
In a message of solidarity, Dr. Igali, a world and Olympic champion, emphasized the critical role grassroots sports events play in the development of future champions.
He highlighted the Youth Games as a unique opportunity for Bayelsa to discover new athletes who could one day represent the state and the nation on the global stage.
“The importance of grassroots events that foster developmental growth can never be overstated,” Igali said. “The Youth Games provide a positive avenue for nurturing young athletes, and we must continue to encourage such opportunities.”
While urging the athletes to compete fairly and uphold the state’s reputation, Igali reminded them that the primary goal at their age is to build a strong foundation in sportsmanship and discipline.
He stressed that the Youth Games should not be viewed solely as a competition for medals, but as a long-term investment in the future of sports.
“I want to set the record straight: the Youth Games are beyond just winning laurels for us. Although we would be happy to win, it’s really about the future of these young athletes,” Igali said.
However, Igali made it clear that Bayelsa’s athletes would not shy away from competition. “That being said, we are in Asaba to compete just like everyone else, and we hope to give a good account of ourselves.”
He concluded by wishing the athletes success as they represent both Bayelsa and the Ijaw culture, expressing confidence in their abilities to maintain the state’s winning tradition in sports.
