Former President Goodluck Jonathan has officially flagged off the construction of a new Olympic-standard 25,000-capacity stadium in Bayelsa State.
The groundbreaking ceremony, held in Igbogene, Yenagoa, was part of the activities marking Governor Douye Diri’s fifth anniversary in office.
Jonathan, who performed the sod-turning, expressed his excitement about the landmark project and commended Governor Diri’s developmental efforts. He urged both the state and federal governments to ensure the stadium meets international standards and called for the establishment of a dedicated sports fund to support athletes beyond their active careers.
“This is my state, and I have to celebrate with the government for the progress made. This is an iconic project that will develop the state. I hope that by the time this stadium is completed in 24 months, I will escort President Tinubu to inaugurate it,” Jonathan said.
Governor Diri emphasized that the stadium is a transformative project poised to redefine Bayelsa’s identity in sports and urban development. He highlighted its potential to boost economic opportunities, create jobs, and enhance youth development in the state.
“This facility will serve as an inspiration for our youth—a place where dreams can take flight, talent can be cultivated, and champions can arise. The construction of this ultra-modern stadium aligns seamlessly with our broader agenda, not just for sports but for the comprehensive development of our urban landscape,” Diri stated.
The governor also called on oil multinationals, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), and private enterprises to support the project, noting that corporate sponsorship of sports infrastructure is a global best practice.
In his remarks, Alhaji Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, endorsed the project on behalf of the Federal Government, praising its economic and social benefits. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President, Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau, and former NFF boss, Amaju Pinnick, also lauded the initiative, pledging their support.
Bayelsa’s Commissioner for Sports, Dr. Daniel Igali, expressed optimism that the stadium would elevate the state’s position in national and international sports. He noted that while the Samson Siasia Sports Complex had served the state for nearly three decades, a modern facility was long overdue to support the aspirations of Bayelsa’s athletes and sports enthusiasts.
With an expected completion timeline of 24 months, the stadium project is poised to elevate Bayelsa’s sports infrastructure, stimulate economic growth, and nurture local talent for national and international competitions.
