Reopening of the Newly Renovated Table Tennis Hall in the Bayelsa State Sports Council.

Bayelsa State took another bold step in advancing sports development as the Bayelsa State Table Tennis Association (BYSTTA) officially commissioned its newly renovated hall and presented a brand-new ITTF-approved tournament table to Niger Delta University (NDU). The landmark event, held on Friday 21st March, 2025 at the association’s facility in the state’s sports complex, brought together key stakeholders, government officials, and the state’s vibrant table tennis community.

The ceremony was graced by the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, His Excellency, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, who performed the official commissioning. Also in attendance were the chairman of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly Committee on Sports, Hon. Tare Porri, the Honourable Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon. Champion Daniel Igali, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Sports Development, Madam Grace Alagoa, and the Director of Sports, Sir Braveman Wodi. The Director of Sports, Niger Delta University, as well as all table tennis association secretaries, coaches, and athletes, were also present, underscoring the significance of the occasion.

The event commenced with the rendition of national and state anthems, followed by an opening prayer. The Honourable Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon. Champion Daniel Igali, delivered a warm welcome address, highlighting the Bayelsa State Government’s continued commitment to sports infrastructure and athlete development.

In his introductory remarks, the Chairman of BYSTTA, Mr. Ama-Ebi W. Ebikpolade, expressed gratitude to the state leadership for its unwavering support in promoting table tennis. He noted that the establishment of the secretariat represents a significant milestone in ensuring efficient administration, talent grooming, and professional management of the sport.

During the official commissioning, His Excellency, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, commended the association for its strides in developing table tennis in Bayelsa State. He emphasized the government’s commitment to fostering grassroots sports development, identifying with the association on its significant strides, and reassuring the association of government’s commitment to the growth of sports. As part of the commissioning, the Deputy Governor also presented a brand-new ITTF-approved playing table to Niger Delta University (NDU), further strengthening the collaboration between BYSTTA and the institution in nurturing future champions.

Following the formal proceedings, guests embarked on a guided tour of the new training facility, inspecting the added facilities designed to enhance training efficiency and athlete support.

The event concluded with closing anthems, marking a new chapter in Bayelsa’s table tennis development. The successful execution of this project is a testament to the dedication of the Bayelsa State Table Tennis Association, whose leadership continues to push the boundaries of sports excellence in the state.

With this new milestone, Bayelsa is poised to further dominate the sport, producing elite athletes and ensuring sustainable growth in table tennis across all levels.