The first edition of the Bayelsa State Sports Festival got underway with an opening ceremony at the Samson Siasia Sports Complex in Yenagoa on Sunday.
Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State declared the event tagged ‘Prosperity Unity Games’ open.
A colourful march past by athletes and officials from the 8 Local Government Areas of the state featured at the opening ceremony.
Governor Diri explained that the event was initiated to foster unity among the people and positively channel the energy of the youth to productive ventures.
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of a financial institution that sponsored the event, Dr Herbert Wigwe said the goal was to develop sporting talent in the state.
Highpoint of the opening ceremony was cultural display and entertainment by artistes including Ijaw music crooner Jah Wonder.
In the opening football match, Brass and Ogbia settled for a 2 – 2 draw at the main bowl of the Samson Siasia Sports Complex.
Action begins in many of the 14 sporting events at the State Sports Festival on Monday just as weightlifting and few other sports started on Sunday with some athletes already winning medals.
