By Erebi Robinson Ere
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!*Bayelsa’s Football Giants Roar as Governor Diri Applauds Queens and United FC for Outstanding Performances
Bayelsa State’s sporting spirit soared higher on Thursday, August 28, 2025, as Governor Senator Douye Diri delivered glowing tributes to Bayelsa Queens FC and Bayelsa United FC after the latest edition of the Weekly Prosperity Roadwork. The weekly fitness campaign, which concluded with calisthenics at the Samson Siasia Stadium in Yenagoa, doubled as a celebration of the state’s rising football dominance both at home and on the continental stage.
Governor Diri, popularly hailed in sports circles as the “Games Master-General”, spared no words in applauding the Bayelsa Queens for their remarkable run at the ongoing CAF Women’s Champions League Zonal Qualifiers in Yamoussoukro, Côte d’Ivoire.
“For our girls that are doing very well in faraway Cote D’Ivoire—Yamoussoukro—congratulations,” the Governor said with pride. “I’m monitoring all of the matches you’ve played, from your very tough first game against the Police Girls of Ghana.”
That victory was particularly sweet, as it avenged last year’s elimination of Nigeria’s Edo Queens by the same Ghanaian side. The Governor also celebrated the Queens’ commanding 3-0 win over Togo’s representatives, describing their performance as “outstanding” and reflective of a team on a mission.
To support the team further, Governor Diri announced an upward review of their match bonuses, emphasizing that greater rewards await as they advance.
“You must come home having beaten the entire West African zone. You’re not just representing Bayelsa or Nigeria—you’re representing West Africa in this female continental engagement. That is my charge to you.”
Bayelsa United’s Breakthrough in Ibadan
The Governor also turned his attention to Bayelsa United, whose historic victory over Shooting Stars SC of Ibadan stunned the football community. The match marked a rare and symbolic away win, breaking the myth of “invincibility” often surrounding home teams in Nigerian football.
“For the first time, you went to Ibadan, where no other team survives… and you defeated them,” he said, with a light-hearted warning. “You know I’m a friend of Ibadan, but still—well done!”
More than just a congratulatory moment, Governor Diri seized the opportunity to reflect on a deeper shift in Nigerian football:
“This shows that our league is improving. Referees can no longer be bought, and the culture of guaranteed home wins is beginning to fade. This is a turning point for the Nigerian league.”
He called out the longstanding corruption in Nigerian football, lauding the NFF and league organizers for efforts in cleaning up the system and ensuring fair play. The Governor urged Bayelsa United to keep their momentum alive and finish strong in the league, with a clear ambition to qualify for continental representation.
“Everything is provided for you—sponsorship, government support. Now it’s up to you to show your talent. Fly above Bayelsa, fly above Nigeria, fly into the continent.”
Coach Recognition and a Proverbial Promise
Not one to forget those behind the scenes, Governor Diri also praised Bayelsa United’s coach, calling for formal engagement by the state government and prompt settlement of all his benefits. He emphasized the importance of proper administrative backing in sustaining football success.
In his characteristic oratorical style, the Governor concluded his address with a popular local proverb:
“They say, ‘Ogele wey go sweet, na from beginning na im you go know whether that ogele go sweet.’ Bayelsa United has shown us that this year, the ogele go sweet.”
From the Samson Siasia Stadium to Yamoussoukro and Ibadan, Bayelsa’s football story is quickly becoming one of grit, revival, and promise. Under the watchful eye—and enthusiastic cheer—of Governor Douye Diri, both Bayelsa Queens and Bayelsa United are not only excelling but redefining what state-backed sports development can look like.
Final Word
With increased bonuses, unwavering government support, and a renewed emphasis on fairness and performance, Bayelsa is positioning itself as a football powerhouse—not just in Nigeria, but across Africa.
God bless Bayelsa. God bless Nigerian football.
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