Sports
‘Lack Of Tournaments Hindering Scrabble’s Growth’
The President-elect of the Nigeria Scrabble Federation (NSF) board, Suleiman Gora, in Abuja on Tuesday said lack of tournaments have continued to hinder the sport’s growth in the country.
Gora told newsmen that this situation had hindered the development of young scrabble players.
“By our calendar, the national body is expected to hold two championships in a year, while it is expected that every zonal representative on the board should orgainse at least one championship in his or her zone.
“It is also expected that every scrabble association in the states should organise at least one tournament in their state.
“But in the last four years, we did not get tournaments anywhere.
“Unlike in those days of the past, we used to have the Warri Open, Benin Open, Port Harcourt Open, as well as in Ibadan, Lagos, Kano and Abuja. But now, it is a different scenario,’’ he said.
Gora then called on the sport’s stakeholders and other scrabble lovers to support the game through the hosting of tournaments.
“I have discovered that the only people who can develop scrabble are those who are playing scrabble or those that have passion for the game.
“Therefore, we should go back home and think of how to develop the game in our states.
“States should organise scrabble tournaments which can bring players from their states together, to train them to maturity,” he said.
Gora pointed out that this was the only way to ensure the game’s growth and build young players who would take over from the older athletes.
“There are three ways we can contribute to scrabble: playing the game, sponsoring it, and administering it. If we put these three things together, we will improve the game.
“We have not been doing enough to bring up those who are behind us. So, if you are fortunate to have money, try to nurture at least one person,’’ he said.
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.
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