Team Bayelsa will be targeting improved performance in the overall medals table at the 2022 National Sports Festival in Asaba, Delta State.
Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Daniel Igali who made the assertion in Yenagoa at an unveiling ceremony for Team Bayelsa shortly before their departure for the Games said this was the best prepared contingent to the showpiece.
Igali stated that the State’s contingent had been given all the necessary support from Governor Douye Diri and the Deputy Governor, Lawrence Ewhrdudjakpo to excel at the Fiesta as all the allowances and entitlements of athletes, coaches and officials were ready.
He explained that though the State finished in third position at the last edition in Benin City, Edo State, Team Bayelsa anticipates a tough challenge from other states targeting a podium finish in Asaba.
On his part, the Director of Sports at the State Sports Council, Sir Braveman Wodi explained that Team Bayelsa athletes were poised to compete with their peers across the country and win laurels.
Sir Wodi stated that the Sports Council with adequate support and funding from the State government had prepared the athletes well enough to ward off stiff competition from other states.
Team Bayelsa will present over 800 athletes to compete in 36 Sports at the Asaba 2022 National Sports Festival which runs from November 30 to December 10.
Bayelsa State finished 3rd at the Edo 2020 edition of the Unity Games, clinching a total of 169 medals comprising 56 Gold, 55 Silver and 58 bronze behind the Champion, Delta State and hosts Edo that placed second.
