Sports
Special Adviser Wants Nigerians To Invest In School Sports
The Special Adviser on School Sports to the Rivers State Governor, Aribitonye Okiri, has urged Nigerians to invest in school sports. He said there are abundant talents at the grassroots level, particularly in schools, saying that engaging youth, in sporting activities is another way to combat crime in the society.
Okiri, made the assertion last Friday, after the final match of this year National Principal’s Cup, between Birabi Memorial Grammar School, (BMGS),of Khana LGA and Modern Boys Secondary School, Omoku in Ogba/Egbema/ Ndoni LGA, at the Eze Iche Akarolo Model Primary School, Port Harcourt.
The SA, revealed that the Rivers State Government is planning a big school sports programme, adding that the state government led by Governor Nyesom Wike is passionate in development of sports particularly at the grassroots level.
“As a Power of Sports in Africa, we are planning sports competition for primary, secondary schools and higher institution in the state and we must get it right.
What we have done here today is just the template; Rivers State Government is planning a big school sports programme.
We can use the power of sports in making sure we sustain the existing peace and develop in our society through sports.
If we continue investing in sports development, I believe in the next four to five years, we will produce stars like, Messi, Neymar and Ronaldo,” Okiri said..
He commended the organising committee and teams that participated for their cooperation and understanding during the tournament.
Okiri, used the medium to advise the students to stay away from social vices.
By: Kiadum Edookor
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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