Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa, has commended President Bola Tinubu for what he described as decisive steps to reposition sports administration in Nigeria.
Diri gave the commendation on Monday while declaring open the 2026 Extraordinary General Assembly of the Nigeria Football Federation in Yenagoa.
Represented by his deputy, Peter Akpe, the governor expressed confidence that the transition from a ministry-led structure to a commission-based system would enhance efficiency and deliver better results.
He noted that stakeholders in the sports sector believe the commission model would bring governance closer to athletes and administrators, thereby improving outcomes.
Diri also lauded the Federal Government’s efforts to revitalise the National Sports Institute, describing it as a critical institution that had shaped many sports professionals over the years.
He lamented the previous state of the facility, saying its neglect had been a source of concern for many in the sector.
The governor further expressed satisfaction with the ongoing renovation of the National Stadium in Abuja, describing it as a positive step toward restoring sports infrastructure in the country.
He extended goodwill to the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, urging him to sustain the reform momentum.
Diri said expectations remained high among sports enthusiasts, particularly football fans, regarding the impact of ongoing reforms.
He commended the NFF for selecting Bayelsa as host of the assembly and urged delegates to uphold fairness, transparency, and integrity in their deliberations.
According to him, the future of Nigerian football depends not only on talent but also on credible leadership and sound governance structures.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sports development, highlighting ongoing investment in infrastructure across the state.
He disclosed that construction of a FIFA-standard stadium in Igbogene, Yenagoa, is progressing steadily and is expected to position Bayelsa as a hub for national and international sporting events.
Diri added that the 30,000-capacity facility, designed to meet global standards, would nurture young talents and provide opportunities for athletes to compete internationally.
He emphasised that sustainable growth in football requires not just passion but also adequate infrastructure, effective structures, and international collaboration.
Earlier, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, commended the Bayelsa State Government for its continued support for sports development.
He urged delegates to recognise the importance of the NFF General Assembly and to set aside personal interests in favour of reforms that align with global best practices.
Dikko stressed that the reform process must ensure inclusiveness, transparency, accountability, and representation of key stakeholders, including players, coaches, clubs, referees, and administrators.
Also speaking, President of the NFF, Ibrahim Gusau, said the extraordinary congress was convened to deliberate on reforms aimed at advancing Nigerian football.
He added that the federation is working toward a successful elective congress scheduled for September, which he said would further strengthen football administration in the country.
