The Head of the Edo Sports Commission, Amadin Enabulele, has reaffirmed the state’s dedication to energizing athletes who are demonstrating remarkable performances at the current National Sports Festival in Abeokuta.
Enabulele, who took pride in the achievements of Team Edo thus far, specifically commended the men’s cricket team for their impressive 8-wicket triumph over Delta in their opening match held on Tuesday.
“We are fully committed to supporting our athletes because we recognize the demands of competing at this level.
“This goes beyond mere participation; it’s about making an impact, and Team Edo is already accomplishing that,” he stated.
He characterised Team Edo as a youthful, tenacious squad capable of thriving, particularly in events such as cricket, gymnastics, weightlifting, football, and kung fu.
The chairman further highlighted the significance of collaboration, discipline, and commitment; traits he noted were clearly visible in the present group of athletes representing the state.
“If Edo is absent from the National Sports Festival, it’s not complete. We are the pulse of athletics in Nigeria, and our athletes are here to reaffirm that,” he remarked.
Enabulele also guaranteed that the state government was wholeheartedly supporting the team.
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He mentioned that prior to their departure for the competitions, athletes were promised substantial rewards from the government, which were communicated through the deputy governor.
“The athletes have been assured of bonuses for achieving podium finishes, and we trust that the government will uphold its commitments if they achieve results,” he disclosed.
Regarding the organization of the festival, the Edo sports commission leader praised Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun for the infrastructure and logistics provided.
He remarked that he visited the venues weeks in advance and found the advancements to be commendable.
However, he expressed concerns about officiating in certain events, referencing a contentious kung fu ruling that was unfavorable to Team Edo.
By the end of events on Tuesday, Team Edo had collected 32 medals, comprising four gold, 14 silver, and 14 bronze.
