The Bayelsa state government has made it a priority to recognize, foster, and support talented individuals who are fervent about excelling in sports and bringing honour to the state.
Dr. Baraladei Igali, the state’s commissioner for Youth and Sports, reiterated this commitment when he received Dr. Timipre Okou, a Bayelsa-born international wrestling referee, who recently returned from Madagascar after officiating at the Indian Ocean Island Games.
The government is enthusiastic about using sports as a tool to engage the productive energies of young people.
It believes in providing platforms for individuals from Bayelsa to showcase their talents on the global stage.
Commissioner Igali described Okou as an asset to the state and the Nigerian Wrestling Federation and lauded him for his refereeing achievements.
The commissioner assured Okou, who is a worthy ambassador of the state, of the government’s unwavering support.
Okou expressed his profound appreciation to Governor Douye Diri, the commissioner, and the Nigerian Wrestling Federation for giving him an opportunity to represent the country.
He shared his experiences as a referee and expressed his desire to partner with the government and other organizations to mentor upcoming talents in refereeing.
He also revealed that plans are in progress to organize a wrestling competition among higher institutions in Bayelsa to identify budding wrestlers and nurture referees.
The Bayelsa state government’s commitment to sports development is evident in its tireless efforts to identify, nurture, and support talented athletes, and provide them with the necessary resources to excel on a global scale.