Delta-born Avwenagha Oshevire became the new National Champion at the National Scrabble tournament, beating about 300 contenders to win the N500,000 star prize and a trophy.
The 3-day tourney which held in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa state capital had over 300 participants from across the country, who featured in five categories, including Masters, Intermediate, Veterans, Opens and Students.
Governor Douye Diri represented by his deputy, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, during the closing ceremony, congratulated the participants for a successful tournament, while noting that scrabble does not only develop the mind but also enhances the ability of a person to think outside the box.
“Scrabble does not only develop the mind. It also develops our capacity to think outside the box. For Bayelsa, we have looked at four areas to improve our youths, and that is if your certificate cannot earn you three square meals, your skills should do it.”
He disclosed that the state government is putting together huge investments in sports to create opportunities and skills for Bayelsians.
“We are poised to improve the skills of our young generation and even our elders. We believe that there is no time you cannot learn something new. People at old age can develop skills and feed with it.”
Gov. Diri stressed that it was his administration’s policy on youth development that saw the state clinch the third position at the just concluded National Sports Festival.
He urged the Commissioners of Education and Youths and Sports Development to take advantage of the skills in scrabble, introducing scrabble clubs in schools across the state.
The governor also commended the Bayelsa State chairman of the Scrabble Association, Mr. Daniel Alabrah and his team for a job well done in hosting a successful tournament which showcased the potentials of those skilled in the game.
