Bayelsa State Commissioner of Sports, Hon. Daniel Igali says Bayelsa United hopes to survive the drop in this season’s NPFL season and challenge for a continental spot next season. The elated commissioner spoke after the Prosperity Boys battled Enyimba to a 1-1 draw in Aba on Sunday.
Igali said he hopes the team gets out of the drop zone and be comfortable towards the end of the season.
“That’s the hope. Our hope is to survive. I think we have a team that is better than where the league table depicts at the moment. The first half of the season, we saw some lapses in some areas of play and we’ve been able to fortify those specific areas and so we’re a bit puzzled by the results we’re having currently but over the past three games, it’s been decent.”
“They all know that we’re playing around very dangerous horizons and there’s need for us to get out of this and be comfortable before the end of the year.”
He further stated that the Government is giving the team what they need, hence positive results are expected. Coach of the team, Ladan Bosso was at a point given ultimatum because of the position of the team at that time. Baring his mind on that action by the management of the team, Igali said he is more interested in how the team responds, than the ultimatum itself.
“I must tell you I’m not happy with where we are. The Bayelsa State Government has expended a lot of resources on the team. I can say here without any fear that my team is probably the best looked after team in the league. I can say that and I will be prepared to have that conversation with anybody.”
“I don’t think it needs to be about ultimatums, I think it needs to be about commitment to play and to ensuring that they stay, not just afloat but we still have nine games to go but to be in comfortable position before the end of the league so that next year we can push for continental status.”
Ahead of the inaugural Niger Delta Sports Festival which runs from April 1-8th 2025, Igali said he is excited that the festival gives opportunity to young athletes as it is strictly for those under the age of 25.
“You know the Niger Delta Sports Festival, the inaugural one at that is an U25 tournament, so are very excited that we are going to be able to try some young athletes who will have an opportunity.”
“Some that will not be able to go to the National Sports Festival will be able to compete here, for me that is what I’m more excited about and we also hope it becomes an annual event or a biannual so that it is sustained and it can also help the Niger Delta States have that edge over other states in terms of national competitions.”