Sports
School Sports, Tool For Unity – Banigo
Rivers State Deputy
Governor, Dr. (Mrs) Ipalibo Harry Banigo has said that the re-introduction of School Sports in the Academic Calendar of Public Schools in the State will strengthen unity among ethnic, religious and cultural groups of the State.
The Deputy Governor stated this during the 15th Annual Inter-House Sports Competition of Bereton Montessori Nursery and Primary Schools, Port Harcourt.
Dr. Banigo who was represented by her Senior Special Assistant on Administration, Barr. Gilbert Nria, noted that Sports meets in Schools help to equip Pupils and Students in total learning and enhance their cognitive and psychomotor domains. According to her, both Teachers and Pupils are provided opportunity for healthy interaction in an informal atmosphere which enable them explore their potentials.
She urged the pupils to effectively utilize the opportunity presented to them, as Sports is capable of making them a global brand, to represent the State and Nation in International tournaments.
“Today Sports are no longer a past time nor for academic drop outs, as it can attract fame worldwide, accompanied by attractive remuneration that can help shape the future of Youths”. She asserted.
Dr. Banigo lauded the Managing Director of Bereton Montessori Chief (Mrs) V.O.R Diete-Spiff for contributing to the development of education in the State and urged her to sustain the standard attained.
Earlier, the Managing Director C.E.O of Bereton, Mrs. Victoria Diete-Spiff who said the theme of this year’s Athletics Completion was ”Sports –a veritable tool for Societal Development” remarked that Sports helps in inculcating discipline in Athletes, promote patriotism and should therefore be encouraged and promoted in Schools.
Highlight of the event was presentation of award to the Deputy Governor by Barr. Jude Ndubuisi, P.T.A chairperson and athletic competitions by various houses.
The Bayelsa State government, yesterday, announced that the marathon will be held on Saturday, April 4, 2026.
The inaugural race is owned by the Bayelsa State Government and will be organised by Nilayo Sports Management Limited, a sports management company.
Under the theme “The Reveal,” the race represents a bold unveiling of Bayelsa’s immense human and cultural potential to the international community, inviting the world to witness the resilience, grit, and talent rooted in the heart of the Niger Delta.
According to the organisers, the race will be flagged off at 9:30 a.m., at the Opolo Roundabout, guiding participants through a carefully designed 10-kilometre route that highlights the scenic beauty and vibrant atmosphere of Yenagoa.
The course will culminate at Peace Park Square, where athletes will cross the finish line into a grand celebration of endurance, unity, and community spirit.
To elevate the experience for runners and spectators alike, the finish venue will host a high-energy post-race concert featuring performances from top A-list artistes, blending sport and entertainment in a festival-style atmosphere.
The organisers directed all registered participants to collect their race bibs and kits at the designated Peace Park Square between March 30 and April 3, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily.
The race, according to them, is currently on track for World Athletics accreditation, underscoring the commitment of both the Bayelsa State Government and Nilayo Sports Management Limited to delivering an event that meets the highest global standards.
The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Bukola Olopade, on Friday continued the Commission’s nationwide appreciation tour with a visit to Abeokuta, where outstanding junior athlete, Majekodunmi Afusat Bisola, was presented with a cheque of N3 million.
The presentation forms part of the NSC’s initiative to recognise and reward exceptional junior athletes who distinguished themselves in 2025 and contributed significantly to Nigeria’s medal haul.
Majekodunmi delivered an impressive run of performances on the track. At the last edition of the National Sports Festival, she stormed to gold in the 400m and the 4x400m relay. She replicated the double triumph at the Confederation of African Athletics (CAA) Junior Championship, in Abeokuta, before emerging as one of the standout stars at the African Youth Games in Luanda, Angola.
Speaking during the presentation, Olopade explained that the Commission deemed it necessary to extend financial appreciation to grassroots athletes after elite performers had earlier received grants running into thousands of dollars.
“A few weeks ago, after paying grants to our elite athletes, we agreed tthere was a need to also appreciate these young, budding talents who made Nigeria proud last year,” he said.
He disclosed that of the 376 medals recorded by Nigerian athletes in 2025, more than 200 were won by grassroots talents, underscoring the importance of sustained investment in youth development.