The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has pledged to collaborate with the Bayelsa State Government in its bid to host the 2028 National Sports Festival.
SWAN President, Benjamin Isaiah, made the pledge on Tuesday in Yenagoa during an inspection of sports facilities and ongoing projects in the state.
The inspection tour was led by the Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon. Daniel Igali.
The team inspected the 30,000-capacity stadium at Igbogene, the 5,000-capacity stadium at Sampou, the Wrestling Gymnasium and the training pitch behind Government House, Yenagoa.
Isaiah, who was impressed with the level of preparation, lauded Governor Douye Diri’s Prosperity Administration for investing heavily in sports infrastructure.
He noted that the facilities, when completed, would not only position Bayelsa to host national competitions but would also boost sports development in Nigeria.
He thanked the state government for the privilege of being part of Bayelsa’s 30th anniversary celebration, stressing that the state is preparing massively for the festival.
At the Igbogene Stadium, Dr. Dagogo Emmanuel of Mutual Construction Company (MCC) disclosed that piling works had been completed and construction had moved to a new phase, assuring that the project would be completed within the agreed timeline.
On his part, Hon. Igali said government has intensified supervision of all ongoing sports projects, with weekly monitoring to ensure contractors adhere to quality standards and deadlines.
He said the investment is geared towards making Bayelsa ready for the 2028 NSF and leaving a lasting legacy for athletes in the state.
The commissioner was accompanied by the Permanent Secretary, Pereyi Efeke, Technical Adviser, Sir Braveman Wodi and other top officials of the ministry.
