WHAT a way to crown two solid years of sports development other than the victory recorded two days ago in faraway Abeokuta by Delta State at the National Sports Festival. The victory no doubt against all odds has confirmed that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has done more than expected.
There is this adage that says, not how far but how well and this could jolly well sum up the achievements recorded within the two years.
Here, I shall restrict myself strictly to sports which is my constituency albeit to tell you that this is the only thing that brings joy to the teeming youths. If you are in doubt, watch the highlights of events at the just concluded Gateway Games in Abeokuta.
While speaking after he was sworn in as Governor, Elder Sheriff Oborevwori had told us point blank that Warri City Stadium would be a priority among other things. The Governor has achieved significant milestones in the area of Sports. Today, work is seriously going on with all the adjourning streets wearing a new look. The drainage which is of most concern has been completed. The stadium if the plan is well followed will be one of the best and judging from the jobs executed by the Governor, there is hope that Warri City Stadium will rise again.
Investments in infrastructure have improved transportation networks, enhance connectivity, and facilitated economic activity. The Asaba-Ughelli road will help Sports men and women who traversed this route daily.
However, one thing that stands him out among his peers is the decision not to jettison projects embarked upon by his predecessor. This, the uncompleted jobs at the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba were adequately taken care of. Today, the buildings with the claddings have been completed. Not many people would take note of this except stakeholders who are familiar with the Stadium.
The National Youth Games was hosted shortly after he came on board with Delta carting home the trophy.
Nothing gladdens the heart of Sports men and women than participating in tournaments and competitions.
Sources close to the athletes confirmed that provisions were made for competitions and they have been attending. The Hockey female team were in Egypt where they performed excellently with fanfare.
What shocked the Athletes and officials was the payment of awards to deserving winners in the last National Sports Festival hosted in Asaba. The truth is that the foundation for the victory in Abeokuta was laid immediately after that payment. It was the last straw that broke the camel’s back. It was a last minute joker which moved the athletes with a promise to do more.
Through the MORE Agenda, we have seen his unwavering commitment to youth’s empowerment and sports excellence which is second to none. His visionary leadership has contributed in no small way in motivating the athletes in wanting to do more. It showed in their determination to excel as displayed at the just National Sports Festival which ended two days ago.
In Abeokuta, it was the talk of the town that they have to do well to be able to get more. One good turn deserve another. They have done their own and will now be waiting for another joker that will keep them intact for Enugu 2026. Many athletes confessed that they were shocked when news filtered in that they would be getting their money. The reason is not far-fetched as the competition took place when his predecessor was in the office.
The next task before the Governor in the next two years is to shift his attention to renovating the mini stadia that litters the nooks and crannies of the state. With his prudent style of managing the resources, the Governor could pick one from each senatorial district for renovation. This will go a long way in promoting Grassroots sports which is lacking in the country.
Efforts should also be made to do more at grassroots with more commitment towards enhancing headmasters and principals’ cup. Inter House Sports should be made compulsory at the primary and secondary school levels. Additionally, sports equipment should be made available to schools that show seriousness in sports.
The ability of the government to encourage youth participation in sports will create a positive mind-set from criminal activities. It will make the youths to prioritize learning and skill development towards gaining more support for their individual journeys. It will also ensure the youths are challenged appropriately and feel valued within their peer groups especially at the grassroots level.
The provision of these amenities will provide emotional support and offer space for them to offer their feelings, both positive and negative during practices and games.
A number of athletes revealed to me in Abeokuta that but for sports they wouldn’t have known a state called Ogun. They have been talking about their experiences, their strength and their success which will guide them as they move on. Their involvement in sports no doubt, has created opportunities to connect with other athletes from different states, sharing their experiences.
Once again, I congratulate our governor for what he has achieved within these two years and should not allow anything to distract him from the set goals especially in the era of renewed hope for more agenda.
