Bayelsa Governor Doubles Diri National Scrabble Classic Prize Money to ₦40 Million

Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has announced an increase in the prize money for the next edition of the Diri National Scrabble Classic, with the total purse rising from ₦20 million to ₦40 million.

The governor made the announcement on Sunday night during the closing ceremony of the sixth edition of the tournament held in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital.

Diri revealed that the winner of the Masters category will now receive ₦5 million as part of the expanded prize package.

He also directed the Commissioners for Sports and Education to develop plans for introducing Scrabble into secondary schools across the state, saying the game helps improve vocabulary, spelling, reasoning ability, strategic thinking and mental development among students.

The governor praised the organisers and participants, noting that the competition has grown beyond Nigeria and continues to attract international recognition.