Bayelsa To Introduce Scrabble Tournament In Secondary Schools As Gov. Diri Reaffirms Support For Mind Sports
Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, has announced plans by his administration to introduce Scrabble tournaments in secondary schools across the state as part of efforts to promote intellectual development and strategic thinking among students.
The governor made the announcement at the closing ceremony of the 6th Governor Douye Diri National Scrabble Classic, held at the DSP Alamieyeseigha Memorial Banquet Hall in Yenagoa.
Commending the Chairman of the Bayelsa State Scrabble Association, Mr. Daniel Alabrah, for successfully hosting the tournament for the sixth consecutive time, Governor Diri praised the growth of the game in Nigeria and beyond.
"I am delighted by the remarkable progress this competition has made in our country and internationally. I commend the leadership of the Nigeria Scrabble Federation, the Bayelsa State Scrabble Association, and everyone who has contributed to making this game more popular and impactful," he said.
Describing Scrabble as an educational and intellectually stimulating sport, the governor said the state government would continue to support its development.
"This is a game I will personally recommend for our secondary schools because it is highly educational and encourages strategic thinking. It is one sport we will continue to support as a government.
"While the prize money is important, what matters even more is that we are promoting a game that sharpens the mind, keeps young people positively engaged, and helps them develop a different perspective in solving problems," Governor Diri added.
He also expressed appreciation to participants and organizers, stating that he was pleased to be part of the closing ceremony of the 2026 edition of the championship.
At the end of the two-day competition, Adulmumuni Jimoh emerged champion in the Masters Category, earning the tournament's top prize of ₦2 million, while winners in other categories also received cash prizes.
In recognition of their exceptional performances, 9-year-old Funwei Elizabeth Fun-ere from Akeddei Community in Sagbama Local Government Area of Bayelsa State and 7-year-old Yusuf Abdulsalam from Kwara State were each presented with ₦1 million.
The closing ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including the member representing Yenagoa/Kolokuma-Opokuma Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Oboku Oforji; Bayelsa State Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon. Daniel Igali; Acting Chief of Staff, Government House, Mr. Irorodamie Komonibo; Deputy Chief of Staff to the Deputy Governor, Mr. Gowon Toruyouyei; President of the Nigeria Scrabble Federation, Engr. Bright Idahosa; members of the Bayelsa State Executive Council, top government officials, and stakeholders in the scrabble community.
