Bayelsa @ 30: Bayelsa, Delta Renew Wrestling Rivalry

By Promise Okotoko

Bayelsa State and neighbouring Delta State are set to renew their sporting rivalry as elite wrestlers from both states go head-to-head in a special wrestling contest to mark the 30th anniversary of Bayelsa State’s creation.

The wrestling contest is part of a series of sporting activities lined up to celebrate three decades of Bayelsa’s existence, with the event expected to showcase the strength, talent and competitive spirit of athletes from the two Niger Delta states.

Despite the rivalry on the wrestling mat, Bayelsa and Delta have maintained decades of shared security, cultural ties and peaceful coexistence as neighbouring states in the Niger Delta region.

The friendly bouts are expected to bring together some of the best wrestlers from both states in a display of brotherhood, friendship and healthy competition, while highlighting the common aspirations and shared interests of the people of the Niger Delta.

Wrestling stakeholders, sports administrators and prominent sports personalities from across the country are also expected in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital, for the grand ceremony marking the 30th anniversary of the state’s creation.

Their presence is expected to add further colour to the celebration and underscore the importance of sports in fostering unity, strengthening relationships and promoting the development of wrestling and other sporting disciplines in Bayelsa State and across Nigeria.

The programme, confirmed by the Bayelsa State Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon. Daniel Igali, will also feature other sporting and cultural activities designed to add colour to the anniversary celebration.

Activities will commence at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, September 28, 2026, with an Ogele Procession from the Bayelsa State Government House to the Samson Siasia Stadium, where the anniversary sporting activities will take place.

At the stadium, sports legends, both young and old, are expected to participate in a lap around the pitch and a symbolic torch-passing ceremony, representing the connection between generations and the continuity of sporting excellence in the state.

A novelty football match between the Executive and Political Appointees’ team and their counterparts from the Judiciary and Legislature will also form part of the programme, providing another platform for camaraderie and healthy competition.

The Bayelsa State Government has urged residents, sports enthusiasts and members of the public to turn out in large numbers at the Samson Siasia Stadium and join in celebrating the state’s 30th anniversary through sports, unity and friendship.