BY SANNI OLUWASEUN VICTORIA
As part of efforts to fine-tune preparations ahead of the second edition of the Niger Delta Sports Festival, the Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, on Tuesday officially declared open the Team Edo camp.
Enabulele also led an inspection tour of key sporting facilities to be used during the festival and various training sessions for athletes, signalling Edo State’s readiness to host and compete strongly at the Games.
In a statement issued by his Media Officer, Edoko Wilson Edoko, the Commission boss, while welcoming athletes and coaches to camp, stressed the importance of cultivating a strong winning mentality among Team Edo participants.
“You are no longer ordinary athletes known only by your names; you are now ambassadors of Edo State. This is an opportunity not just to host, but to win,” Enabulele said.
“Our Governor, Sen. Monday Okpebholo, has once again demonstrated his deep commitment to your welfare. That is why we are camping in this beautiful facility — something that has never happened before.”
Enabulele further emphasised discipline, focus, and professionalism as key requirements during the camping period, noting that the serene environment was deliberately provided to enhance performance.
“The environment is very conducive. I therefore advise that we remain focused on why we are here and maintain a very high level of discipline,” he added.
He disclosed that the camping duration of the Games has been extended to 12 days, while camping allowances for athletes and coaches have been increased, following the Governor’s approval, to further motivate the team.
Expressing appreciation for the dedication shown so far, Enabulele charged all stakeholders to work collectively towards success.
“We are determined to win. All hands must therefore be on deck,” he stated, before officially declaring the Team Edo camp open amid cheers from athletes and officials.
In their separate remarks, the Acting Permanent Secretary of the Commission, Mrs. A.P. Efe-Amenze; Executive Director (Edo North), Hon. Frank Ilaboya; Executive Director (Edo South), Hon. Baldwin Bazuaye, MON; and Executive Director (Edo Central), Barr. Anthony Ikuenobe, all urged athletes and coaches to remain committed, disciplined, and result-oriented, while showcasing Edo State’s rich sporting talents at the festival.
Speaking on behalf of the athletes and coaches, Treasure Mike Osagie, a female handball athlete, and Coach Victor Umoru, head coach of basketball, expressed gratitude to Hon. Enabulele for his unwavering support and commitment to sports development in Edo State. They encouraged fellow athletes and coaches to stay focused and return with gold medals as proof of their hard work.
Thereafter, the Chairman of the State Liaison Committee for the Niger Delta Sports Festival, Hon. Enabulele, led officials on an inspection tour of facilities, including the basketball and volleyball courts at Wire Road, as well as track and field, swimming, tennis, and weightlifting venues at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium.
The Niger Delta Sports Festival, financed by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and organised by Dunamis-Icon Limited, is scheduled to hold from February 20 to 27, with over 3,000 athletes, 500 officials, and 250 journalists expected to participate