Diri Commends Tinubu’s Sports Reforms at NFF Extraordinary Assembly in Yenagoa
Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has lauded President Bola Tinubu for ongoing efforts to reposition sports administration in Nigeria, describing recent reforms as pragmatic and people-oriented.
The governor gave the commendation on Monday while declaring open the 2026 Extraordinary General Assembly of the Nigeria Football Federation in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital. Represented by his deputy, Dr. Peter Akpe, Diri expressed confidence that the transition from a ministry-led structure to a commission-based system would enhance efficiency and bring sports governance closer to stakeholders.
According to him, the restructuring initiative would deliver improved outcomes for athletes and administrators alike, noting that those familiar with the commission model understand its potential to drive grassroots engagement and measurable progress.
Diri also praised President Tinubu’s intervention in reviving the National Sports Institute, recalling its past contributions to athlete development across the country. He noted that the facility, which had suffered years of neglect, was now witnessing renewed attention and revitalisation.
The governor further commended the ongoing refurbishment of the National Stadium in Abuja and extended goodwill to the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Alhaji Shehu Dikko, expressing optimism that expectations of Nigerians would be met under the new sports governance framework.
Appreciating the NFF for selecting Bayelsa as host of the extraordinary assembly, Diri urged delegates to uphold fairness, transparency and integrity in their deliberations. He stressed that the future of Nigerian football depends not only on talent but also on credible leadership and sound administrative structures.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to sports development, the governor highlighted ongoing construction of a 30,000-capacity FIFA-standard stadium at Igbogene in Yenagoa. He explained that the project is aimed at positioning Bayelsa as a major hub for national and international sporting events.
“Beyond programmes and competitions, we are investing heavily in infrastructure to support long-term growth. This facility will inspire young talents and place our state firmly on the global sporting map,” he said, adding that the government hopes to host international competitions under the auspices of FIFA and CAF upon completion.
Earlier, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Alhaji Shehu Dikko, commended the Bayelsa State government for its sustained support for sports development. He urged delegates to prioritise national interest over personal gains and embrace reforms that align with global best practices.
Dikko emphasised the need for inclusive representation of all stakeholders—including players, coaches, referees, leagues and administrators—in the reform process, stressing that transparency and accountability must remain central to football governance.
In his remarks, President of the NFF, Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau, said the extraordinary congress was convened to deliberate on reforms aimed at strengthening Nigerian football and to lay groundwork for the federation’s elective congress scheduled for September.
Representatives of global football bodies, including FIFA and CAF, also pledged support for the NFF’s reform agenda while commending the hospitality of the Bayelsa State government.
The assembly drew participation from key stakeholders across the football ecosystem, including state football association officials, league bodies, coaches, referees and players’ representatives.
