Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State has called on multinational oil companies and other corporate organizations operating in the state to channel resources into sports development, emphasising the sector’s potential to empower youths and foster community engagement.
The governor made the appeal on Thursday when the Central Organizing Committee of the Bayelsa Governor’s Football Tournament presented him with branded jerseys ahead of the upcoming competition.
He expressed delight at the tournament’s growth since its inaugural edition in 2015.
“From a modest beginning, the Prosperity Cup has evolved into one of Nigeria’s largest grassroots football competitions.
“The growing number of participating teams is a testament to the commitment of the organizers, and I commend them for their excellent work,” he said.
Diri stressed that the government cannot develop sports in isolation, noting the critical role of private sector investment.
“I call on oil companies, other corporate organisations, and well-meaning citizens of Bayelsa to support this tournament and make visible contributions toward sports sector development,” he said.
He assured that his administration remains committed to youth engagement and empowerment through sports initiatives, underscoring the government’s strategy to use sports as a platform for social development and talent nurturing.
The governor also lauded the tournament’s lead sponsors, including Premium Trust Bank, Linkage Assurance, and the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), for their continued support of sports in Bayelsa State.
“Such partnerships are vital in ensuring the sustainability of grassroots competitions and nurturing the next generation of sports talent,” he added.
The Prosperity Cup, under Governor Diri’s administration, has become a key fixture in Bayelsa’s sports calendar, drawing teams from across the state and helping uncover young football talents who could advance to national recognition.
