The Ministry of Sports Development and the Bayelsa State Football Association have confirmed the participation of top NPFL teams in the maiden Governor Douye Diri pre-season football tournament in Yenagoa. The tournament, scheduled to hold from August 11 to 18, 2024, aims to prepare teams for the upcoming season and foster stronger relationships among participating teams.
According to the Secretary of the Local Organising Committee (LOC), Diseye Nwankwe, eight teams from the top flight of the Nigerian League will participate, including Rivers United, Sunshine Stars, Abia Warriors, Akwa United, Bayelsa United, Insurance, Kwara United, and Warri Wolves. Krusaders of Yenagoa, the 2023 Prosperity Cup champions, will also participate.
The tournament will provide a platform for teams to prepare for the upcoming season, identify and recruit new talents, and develop mental toughness. Each participating team will receive an appearance fee of N500,000 and free accommodation.
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Bayelsa United Technical Adviser, Ladan Bosso, praised the tournament, stating that it will serve as a perfect preparatory ground for his team ahead of the new season. He also commended Governor Douye Diri for sponsoring the tournament, highlighting his commitment to sports development.
Other coaches set to participate in the tournament include Imama Amapakabo of Abia Warriors, Finidi George of Rivers United, Muhammed Babaganaru of Akwa United, and Kennedy Boboye of Sunshine Stars.
The Governor Douye Diri pre-season tournament promises to be an exciting event, with top NPFL teams competing for glory. With its focus on preparation, talent identification, and team bonding, the tournament is set to be a valuable experience for all participating teams.
