Ebonyi State has reinforced its growing reputation as a sports development hub with the unveiling of a modern basketball facility and the commencement of the maiden South-East Regional Basketball Championship in Abakaliki.
The three-day tournament, which began on June 5, has attracted teams, coaches and basketball enthusiasts from across the South-East region.
Representing Governor Francis Nwifuru at the opening ceremony, the Commissioner for Youth Development and Sports, Richard Idike described the championship as the first regional basketball tournament of its scale in Ebonyi State.
He said the competition will serve as a platform for regional integration, sportsmanship and the discovery of talents capable of representing Nigeria at national and international levels.
The commissioner reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to youth and sports development through sustained collaboration with stakeholders.
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In separate remarks, Rev Fr. Maximus Obododike, state Chairman of the Nigeria Basketball Association, the state acting basketball coach, Achu Kingsley; the South-East Zonal Coordinator of the National Sports Commission, Ezenma Bernard; lauded the initiative.
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They noted that the new facility would help nurture future basketball stars and further position Ebonyi State as a destination for sports development.
The major highlight of the event was the presentation of awards and inauguration of the Richard Idike Basketball Court, built to promote youth participation, talent discovery and basketball development in the state.
