By Eunice Nnachi, Yenagoa
Day 5 of the ongoing National Para Games in Abuja witnessed Team Bayelsa continue their impressive medal pursuit, delivering another commendable performance across key events.
The highlight of the day came in Wheelchair Table Tennis, where Bayelsa secured 1 gold and 2 bronze medals. The duo of Ajani Idowu and Razak Bankole produced a commanding display in the men’s doubles, overpowering their opponents in straight sets (4-0, 4-0) to clinch gold in emphatic fashion.
In the pool, Para Swimming added to the tally with 1 gold and 1 bronze medal, as Bayelsa’s swimmers once again demonstrated resilience and consistency. Para Powerlifting also contributed to the medal haul, with Mesomowo Uncle lifting his way to a bronze medal finish.
On the badminton court, Bayelsa’s athletes continued their fine run, delivering a gold medal performance in Para Badminton to further strengthen the team’s standing.
At the close of Day 5, Team Bayelsa recorded a total of 3 gold and 4 bronze medals, bringing their overall tally to an impressive 25 gold, 26 silver, and 26 bronze medals—firmly keeping them in strong contention for top honours.
Speaking after the day’s events, the Permanent Secretary of the Bayelsa State Ministry of Sports Development, Mr. Pere Efeke, expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance, emphasizing that Bayelsa’s status as defending champions is reflected in their consistency and competitive edge.
He noted that following interactions with team officials, there is renewed confidence that the athletes remain fully focused on making the state proud and finishing strongly in the competition.
On a personal note, Mr. Efeke said who said he is relishing the prospect of leading team Bayelsa to victory in his first outing as Permanent Secretary, revealed that he was entrusted with the assignment by the Honourable Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon. Daniel Igali.
On the issue of motivation and rewards, he assured that the State Government, under the leadership of Governor, Senator Douye Diri, remains deeply committed to sports development and athletes welfare.
He expressed optimism, that the governor, widely known for his passion for sports, would undoubtedly reward the athletes for outstanding performances.
Mr. Efeke further highlighted ongoing sporting initiatives in the state, including the 4th Governor Douye Diri National Wrestling Classics in Yenagoa and the upcoming 10-kilometre marathon scheduled for Saturday, noting that these events reflect the administration’s deliberate efforts to positioning Bayelsa as a major sporting hub in Nigeria.
He concluded by appreciating key stakeholders for their continued support, including the Deputy Governor, Dr. Peter Akpe; Chairman of the House Committee on Sports, Hon. Tare Porri; the Honourable Commissioner for Sports Development,Dr Daniel Igali; and members of the media for their consistent and professional coverage of the Games.
