THE NEEDS FOR COOPERATE BODY AND INDIVIDUAL TO SUPPORT GRASSROOTS FOOTBALL DEVELOPMENT BAYELSA STATE - Ada Gwegwe


Sportsman, enthusiast and administrator, Coach Ada Gwegwe have urged the Bayelsa State Government, private sector and individuals to invest in grassroots sports across the State in preparation of the 7th edition of the Bayelsa kids cup 2024 scheduled to commence from 20th-27th May, 2024 to mark this year children's day celebration.

Grassroot football means all football which is non-professional and non-elite that encourages mass participation, stimulates greater interest in the game, provides more opportunities for social inclusion, healthy lifestyle, helps in the development of young players and encourages new players to improve their football skills whilst having fun,  helps to develop the local talent and confidence of players regardless of where each player is from and promote diversity and reduces the likelihood of discrimination. 


Football has been the main focus of sports business development in Africa, not only because of the sport’s huge popularity on the continent but also due to the oversized impact the continent plays in supplying globally-recognized talent. 

Grassroots sports development could only be achieved through a pragmatic private sector participation and investment, a robust private sector involvement to compliment government efforts.


However, the lack of sponsorship, funds and equipment is inimical to the development of grassroots sports in Bayelsa State. It is time for the State Government and sports lovers to leverage on technology to address traditional barriers that hinders the transition of Bayelsa sports talent into the international market.

While the Government alone cannot run the development football, I want to use this opportunity to commend the ROK FOUNDATION who has supported this project from its inception till date.


The GLORIA DIRI FOUNDATION, Mr Ebi Egbe C.E.O. Monimichelle Construction Sports Facilities and NONSO SPORTS who are also supporting this year's Bayelsa kid’s cup.

There is still more to do. With the growing demand for world-class sports facilities, there is a need for investment in modern stadiums, training centers, and sports complexes. Investors can explore partnerships with local authorities, sports federations, or private entities to develop and upgrade infrastructure, catering to both professional athletes and grassroots sports development.


Bayelsa State has a vast pool of young and talented athletes with tremendous potential. Investing in sports academies and talent development programs can offer long-term benefits, nurturing promising athletes and providing them with proper training, coaching, and support. These initiatives can pave the way for talent identification and development in various sports disciplines.

Together we can make Bayelsa great and better in Sports.
While I appreciate them I will not forget to thank the Ministry of Sports Development led by Hon Daniel Igali for giving us all the support and creating the enable environment for sports development and the Ministry of Education for the endorsement and approval of this kids cup because it involves school.

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