The Honourable Commissioner for Sports Development in Bayelsa State, Dr. Daniel Igali, has conveyed his enthusiastic support to the athletes representing Bayelsa at the upcoming National Youth Games.
The event, scheduled to take place from September 9th to 21st, 2024, in Asaba, Delta State, offers a significant platform for young talents to showcase their skills.
In his solidarity message, Dr. Igali emphasized the importance of the Youth Games as a crucial opportunity for Bayelsa State to discover a new generation of champions who could represent both the state and Nigeria in future international sporting events.
Acknowledging the significance of grassroots development in sports, he mentioned that events like the Youth Games play a very key role in nurturing young athletes’ growth and potential.
“The Youth Games offer us a chance to identify and groom new talents that will carry the torch for Bayelsa and Nigeria in the international sporting arena,” Igali stated.
He highlighted the essential nature of developmental events, noting that their impact on the athletes’ future careers and the state’s sporting legacy cannot be overstated.
Dr. Igali urged the athletes to act as good ambassadors for Bayelsa State, stressing the importance of fair competition and focusing on mastering the basics at this stage of their development.
Despite the developmental nature of the Youth Games, he affirmed that the Bayelsa contingent is in Asaba to compete earnestly and showcase their abilities.
“I want to set the record straight; the Youth Games are not just about winning medals for us, although we would be delighted to win. It is about the future of these young athletes,” Igali remarked.
“That being said, we are here in Asaba to compete just like everyone else, and we aim to give a commendable performance.”
He further encouraged the athletes by reminding them of Bayelsa State’s prominent position in the Nigerian sports industry, urging them to continue the state’s winning legacy. “The athletes are aware of Bayelsa State’s achievements in sports, and we encourage them to uphold and advance this winning trajectory.”
In conclusion, Dr. Igali expressed his best wishes to the athletes, hoping they will represent the state and their Ijaw culture with pride and excellence. “I wish them the best of luck in Asaba as they represent Bayelsa State and our rich Ijaw heritage,” he said.
The Bayelsa State contingent is now set to compete in the National Youth Games, with high hopes and strong support from their commissioner and the state’s sports community.
