Edo State Sports Chairman Advocates Youth Empowerment Through Sector

The Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Desmond Enabulele, has called for more commitment to harnessing the power of sports for national unity and building a future filled with opportunities for the youths.

He stated this on Tuesday in Benin, while declaring open the South-South zonal eliminations ahead of the National Sports Festival. The National Sports Festival is scheduled to hold from May 16th – 30th in Ogun State.

The sports commission noted that sports had always been a powerful tool for unity, discipline and youth empowerment, describing the zonal elimination games as a crucial stage to the journey to the National Sports Festival.

“As we gather here today, let us remember that beyond competition, this event is an opportunity to foster friendship, teamwork, and mutual respect among our young athletes, We must continue to harness the power of sports to unite our youths and build a future filled with opportunities for them,” Desmond added.

“To our Edo, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Bayelsa, Rivers, and Delta State athletes, I urge you to compete with passion, determination, and sportsmanship, You are not just representing your states but also showcasing the strength and talent of the South-South region. Give it your best, and let your performance speak for itself.

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The Edo State Sports Commission urged the officials to be fair and impartial, adding, That the credibility of this tournament depends on your integrity, and we expect nothing but unbiased and professional judgment to ensure that the best teams emerge victorious.

The Zonal Coordinator of the National Sports Commission, Peter Njoku, gave the number of participating athletes to 688 (310 males and 378 females) competing in the various events.

He expressed confidence that athletes from the South-South would emerge winners of the event.

Athletes from the six States of the South-South zone namely, Edo, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers Akwa Ibom and Cross River, are participating in the elimination.

NAN/Obinna Aniakor.