Bayelsa Spending Over #100 Billion on New Stadium Ahead of 2028 National Sports Festival — Gov Diri

Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has disclosed that the state government is spending more than ?100 billion on the construction of a new stadium at Igbogene as part of efforts to boost sports development and youth empowerment.

Speaking on Thursday during the state's weekly Prosperity Walk, Diri said the investment is aimed at positioning Bayelsa among Nigeria's leading sports destinations.

The governor stated that construction is progressing steadily on the 25,000-capacity stadium in Igbogene, Yenagoa, as well as a 5,000-seat stadium in his hometown of Sampou.

According to him, the projects form part of the government's broader strategy to create opportunities for young people, stressing that sports remain a powerful tool for youth development and career advancement.

Diri expressed confidence that the facilities would be completed ahead of the 2028 National Sports Festival, which Bayelsa is set to host for the first time in its history.

He noted that the state had previously been unable to bid for the competition because the existing Samson Siasia Stadium did not meet the required standards for hosting the multi-sport event.

The governor explained that the new Igbogene Stadium, alongside the upgraded Samson Siasia Stadium and the Sampou facility, would provide the infrastructure needed to successfully host athletes and officials from across the country.

Addressing the issue of youth empowerment, Diri argued that true empowerment goes beyond financial assistance, saying government should focus on helping young people discover and develop their talents.

He said the state's investment in modern sporting facilities is intended to create an enabling environment for youths to excel professionally in football and other sports.

Reaffirming his administration's commitment to youth development, the governor said the Bayelsa government remains determined to invest public resources in projects that will create lasting opportunities for future generations.

He added that the Igbogene stadium project alone is costing the state no less than #100 billion.