By Osehobo Ofure, Benin City
The Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has commended the sponsors and organizers of the inaugural edition of the 9-state sports festival for their noble initiative and called for its sustenance.
The Governor spoke on Monday during the reception of the unity torch at the Government House in Benin City.
Represented by his Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, Governor Okpebholo stated, “It is my sincere desire that we maintain this partnership for the collective benefit of Edo and our region.”
He reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to sports development in Edo State, assuring the State Sports Commission of unwavering support.
The governor emphasized, “Our government has consistently prioritized sports development in Edo State, and by divine grace, we will provide comprehensive support to ensure victory in this competition.”
Praising the Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele and his board for their remarkable efforts, he noted that the Niger Delta Sports Festival aligns perfectly with his administration’s vision to nurture grassroots talent.
“I want to sincerely appreciate the Chairman, Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Amadin Enabulele, his board, the Permanent Secretary, and all members of the Sports Commission for your outstanding work since our administration began. You have undoubtedly injected new energy into the Sports Commission, and I urge you to maintain this momentum,” he added.
The Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, who received the Niger Delta Sports Festival torch of unity at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium upon its arrival from Bayelsa State, declared that Edo is fully prepared to compete and triumph in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
Enabulele elaborated on the comprehensive preparation of the Edo State contingent, which commenced with local government trials. “We initiated the process by conducting trials in Local Governments. Those who qualified will converge at the state level starting tomorrow, Tuesday, for the final selections,” he explained.
The selected athletes will represent Edo in Uyo, aligning with the state’s strategic approach to excel at both the Niger Delta Sports Festival and the upcoming National Sports Festival.
“We are not merely participating in Uyo; our intention is to win,” Enabulele asserted, highlighting the state’s ambitious outlook for the festival scheduled from April 1 to April 8, 2025, in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
“This initiative is about identifying and nurturing young talent, grooming our athletes, and propelling them to state, national, and international platforms,” he emphasized.
“The timing of this competition is perfect,” he noted, explaining that it provides an ideal platform to evaluate young athletes discovered during local government trials and prepare them for larger competitions.
“Edo’s participation in the Niger Delta Sports Festival is a comprehensive effort to promote unity, develop talent, and stimulate regional economic activity. With local government trials completed and state-level finals imminent, our athletes are primed to deliver exceptional performances,” Enabulele concluded with conviction.
Discussion about this post