By Eunice Nnachi, Yenagoa
In a momentous event that signals a new era for sports and development in Bayelsa State, former President Goodluck Jonathan performed the groundbreaking ceremony for a state-of-the-art, 25,000-capacity stadium in Igbogene, Yenagoa, on Monday.
The event, a highlight of Governor Douye Diri’s fifth anniversary celebrations, drew dignitaries, sports enthusiasts, and community members, all eager to witness the dawn of a promising future.
The new stadium, envisioned as more than just a sports arena, is set to become an economic engine, a cultural hub, and a symbol of Bayelsa’s collective ambition.
With cutting-edge media technology, hospitality suites, retail spaces, and an Olympic-size swimming pool, the facility is designed to drive economic activity, create jobs, and establish Bayelsa as a premier destination for sports and entertainment.
Former President Goodluck Jonathan, in his address, lauded Governor Diri’s vision and leadership, expressing optimism that the stadium would be completed within the 24-month target.
He also seized the opportunity to advocate for the welfare of sportspeople who have brought pride to Nigeria.
Jonathan lamented the plight of many Nigerian athletes who, after winning international medals, are often forgotten and left to struggle in retirement.
He called for the establishment of a fund, managed by reputable individuals, to support athletes throughout their lives, ensuring they are not reduced to begging after their active careers.
“I feel that as a country, we must have a fund to be properly managed by people, so that anybody who has made a name in a sport, that person will not be a beggar till the person dies,” Jonathan asserted, urging the chairman of the National Sports Commission to consider the idea.
“Developing sport is not about encouraging people to go and win medals, but I always feel sad when I see people who have promoted the name Nigeria and gone for international games, either the Commonwealth or Olympics, and win medals immediately, there are all kinds of ceremonies, but after that, they are forgotten,” Jonathan said.
He noted that many Nigerian athletes who have won international medals are often left to beg after their retirement.
“After some years, some of them become almost beggars, even to feed, and that doesn’t encourage young people to put all their lives into sports,” Jonathan added.
However, Jonathan commended Governor Diri’s vision and leadership, expressing hope that the stadium project would be completed within the 24-month target. “I am very hopeful that by February 2027, I will escort President Tinubu down to commission the sports complex. Let me again congratulate you, your vision, and your leadership, my governor, and people who are here to assist you with this project,” he said.
Governor Douye Diri, speaking at the ceremony, expressed his satisfaction with the ongoing development in the state.
He highlighted the significance of the Nembe-Brass road, a project that had been abandoned for over six decades, and emphasized that the ongoing construction would benefit all.
