Bayelsa Govt Plans 25,000-Seat FIFA Stadium

The Bayelsa State Government has unveiled plans to construct more sports facilities across the state, with the centerpiece being a state-of-the-art 25,000-capacity FIFA-approved multipurpose stadium. The Honourable Commissioner for Sports Development, Daniel Igali, made the announcement during a radio interview over the weekend, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to enhancing sports infrastructure.

Igali stated that the proposed stadium would not only serve as a venue for football but would also cater to a variety of sports.

“The stadium will be one of the most modern in the country. It will include a swimming pool, basketball and badminton courts, as well as table tennis and long tennis courts,” he said.

He further assured that the stadium would be fully FIFA-compliant, equipped with Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology, and accessible for people with disabilities.

The new facility is expected to be a major attraction for international competitions, providing Bayelsa residents with a world-class venue for sporting events.

Igali also stressed that the ongoing sports projects reflect the strong leadership of Governor Douye Diri, whose administration prioritizes the development of sports in the state. The sports commissioner added that the projects will be completed before the expiration of the governor’s tenure.

Warri Sentinel understands that the government is also rolling out several other initiatives to boost sports development in Bayelsa. These include the construction of basketball courts for top schools like St Jude’s Girls Secondary School and Bishop Dimeari Grammar School, both of which have excelled in the Nestlé Milo Secondary School National Basketball Championship. Other projects at the Ijaw National Academy and Asoama, along with newly designated areas for sports facilities across the state, are expected to begin shortly.

According to Igali, the new infrastructure would not only provide a platform for local athletes to hone their skills but also foster unity, improve public health, and drive economic growth through sports tourism.