Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has called on residents to harness the unifying power of sports as a means to promote peace, health, and social inclusion.
Speaking at the 2025 Olympic Day celebration in Benin City on Saturday, the governor who was represented by Deputy Governor, Dennis Idahosa, urged citizens of the state to rise and engage in physical activity.
Gov. Okpebholo highlighted that sports can drive progress for both the state and the nation.
“Olympic Day is a perfect opportunity to get moving.
Participating in sports strengthens our minds and bodies, enhances our health and well-being, and fuels our ambitions.
“Sports inspire our dreams, spread happiness, and build unity among us,” he stated.
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The governor referred to sports as a powerful agent for societal change.
“When we engage in sports, we embody the Olympic motto: Faster, higher, stronger—together.
“This is the beauty of sports; it connects the world and transcends borders,” he remarked.
Amadin Enabulele, the Executive Chairman of the Edo Sports Commission, officially opened the Olympic Day Run, highlighting its inclusive nature and global importance.
“Olympic Day is not just a celebration of the modern Olympic Games’ inception; it embodies the values of excellence, friendship, and respect.
“This run is about participation, staying active, and coming together as a community, not just about winning,” the chairman noted.
Enabulele commended the turnout and praised participants for embodying the Olympic spirit.
“Your presence here reflects your dedication to health, sportsmanship, and unity,” he added.
He also expressed gratitude to partners, sponsors, volunteers, and organizers who made the event possible.
The Olympic run, organized by the sports commission, attracted numerous residents, athletes, schoolchildren, and government officials.
The event was held to commemorate the global celebration of the founding of the the modern Olympic movement, inspired by Pierre de Coubertin.
The run began at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium and followed a route through Stadium Road, Ekehuan Road, Ring Road, Plymouth Road, and Akenzua Road, before returning to the stadium.