Governor Douye Diri has endorsed President Bola Tinubu’s decision to restructure Nigeria’s sports administration, expressing confidence that the move will enhance performance and accountability.
He spoke on Monday at the opening of the 2026 Extraordinary General Assembly of the Nigeria Football Federation in Yenagoa.
Represented by Deputy Governor Peter Akpe, Diri said transitioning from a ministry to a commission model would bring sports governance closer to stakeholders and improve outcomes.
He also welcomed efforts to rejuvenate the National Sports Institute and the ongoing upgrade of the National Stadium in Abuja.
The governor urged NFF delegates to prioritise transparency and integrity in their deliberations, noting that sustainable football development requires credible leadership structures.
He highlighted the construction of a 30,000-capacity FIFA-standard stadium in Igbogene as part of Bayelsa’s investment in sports infrastructure aimed at nurturing talent and attracting international events.
Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Alhaji Shehu Dikko, praised the state government’s commitment and called for inclusive reforms that reflect modern realities in football administration.
Meanwhile, NFF President, Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau, said the assembly was convened to chart a reform path for the federation ahead of its elective congress later in the year.
