Governor Diri Commissions World-Class Table Tennis Facility “The Fortress” in Yenagoa
Yenagoa, Bayelsa State – Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has commissioned a state-of-the-art table tennis facility, “The Fortress,” located at the Ox-Bow Lake Pavilion in Yenagoa. The facility is expected to enhance sports development and nurture young athletic talent across the state.
The commissioning ceremony was attended by prominent figures including Senator Benson Agadaga, who represents Bayelsa East Senatorial District and served as Chairman of the Occasion. In his goodwill message, Senator Agadaga expressed delight at the commissioning of “The Fortress,” describing it as a significant milestone in the state’s sporting journey.
Governor Diri lauded the efforts of Mr. Ama-Ebi Ebikpolade Stow, the initiator of the project and Chairman of the Bayelsa State Table Tennis Association. He also urged other Bayelsans to emulate such initiatives and invest in sports as a tool for youth empowerment and crime reduction. Highlighting Bayelsa’s recent success at the African Senior Wrestling Championships in Morocco, the governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to sports development as a pathway to excellence and social progress.
The new facility includes a 150-seat spectator stand, a five-table hall, changing rooms, lounges, and restaurants. It is designed to serve as both a training ground and a talent hub for local and national athletes.
Hon. Bukola Olopade, Director General of the National Sports Commission, was represented by his Special Adviser on Sports, Mr. Ebidowei Oweifie. He commended Governor Diri for prioritizing sports and noted that “The Fortress” aligns with Nigeria’s national strategy to transform sports into an economic driver while enhancing national pride and international competitiveness.
Hon. Tare Porri, Chairman of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly Committee on Sports, also praised the governor’s vision and leadership. He expressed confidence that the facility would help groom athletes capable of making the state and country proud.
Bayelsa State Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon. Daniel Igali, expressed optimism that “The Fortress” would become a breeding ground for future champions, building on the state’s long-standing sporting tradition.
A major highlight of the event was the unveiling of the Bayelsa State Table Tennis Team for the upcoming National Sports Festival in Abeokuta, Ogun State. Also introduced was foreign coach Luciano Esposito from Italy, who is expected to lead the team to success on the national stage.
Mr. Stow expressed gratitude to Governor Diri for his unwavering support and said the facility would offer a world-class environment for skill development and competition. “This facility will provide a platform for young athletes to develop their skills and compete at the highest level, bringing pride to the state and nation,” he stated.