N5 million jackpot awaits Masters winner in revamped Diri Scrabble tournament

In a bid to promote the development of mental abilities among students, Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State has announced an increase in the prize money for the Diri National Scrabble Classic. The governor made this announcement during the closing ceremony of the sixth edition of the tournament, which took place in Yenagoa, the state capital. Diri expressed his enthusiasm for the game, stating that it had a significant impact on his life, particularly in improving his vocabulary and spelling abilities. He noted that Scrabble is a mind game that enhances strategic thinking and intellect, and as such, he would recommend its introduction in secondary schools. The governor directed the Commissioners for Sports and Education to work out the modalities for incorporating the game into the school curriculum. Diri also promised to facilitate the introduction of Scrabble at the 2028 National Sports Festival, which Bayelsa State will host, and to support Nigerian players participating in the World Youth Scrabble Championship in Kenya. The President of the Nigeria Scrabble Federation, Engr. Bright Idahosa, praised the governor for his support, stating that Nigeria is the best Scrabble-playing nation in Africa and the world. Idahosa also commended Diri for his infrastructure projects in the state. The Commissioner for Sports, Daniel Igali, described Scrabble as a mind sport that deserves greater recognition and support. The Chairman of the Bayelsa State Scrabble Association, Mr. Daniel Alabrah, appreciated the governor's support, stating that it had increased youths' interest in the game across Nigeria. The tournament recorded the highest number of registered players, with over 300 participants, and offered the highest prize money so far. Winners of the various categories included Abdulmimin Jimoh, who emerged champion of the Masters category, and Felix Igolukumo, who won the Intermediate category.