Gov. Monday Okpebholo of Edo yesterday charged the state contingent to the 22nd National Sports Festival in Ogun to bring home gold medals and make Edo proud.
Okpebholo gave the charge while addressing the 774-member team shortly before they departed Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium to Abeokuta for the prestigious national sporting events.
The governor, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Dennis Idahosa, urged the team to aim for excellence, discipline, and top-tier performance at the games, scheduled to run from May 16 to 30.
“This administration believes in sports and will continue to invest in its development in Edo State.
“We are tired of silver and bronze. Go for gold and aim for the top of the medal table at the Ogun Games,” he said.
The governor announced incentives of N750,000 cash reward for every gold medalist, with N150,000 and N50,000 to be awarded to silver and bronze winners respectively.
Speaking on behalf of the team, Coach Osamwonyi John, who is the chairman of the workers’ union, expressed appreciation to the state government for its continued interest in sports.
He pledged that the team would make the state proud.
Coach Osamwonyi also commended the Executive Chairman of the Edo Sports Commission, Amadin Enabulele, for his inclusive leadership style.
He appealed for increased support from the state government to further empower the commission.
In his remarks, Enabulele reminded the team of the responsibility they carry.
“Always remember that you are representing Edo State. Stay disciplined and focused.
“We should go and make ourselves and our dear state proud,” he said.
He credited the smooth preparations and comprehensive athlete camping to the enabling environment provided by Okpebholo’s administration.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the contingent includes 612 athletes, comprising 324 male and 288 female, 60 coaches, 36 officials, and 66 delegates.
The 22nd National Sports Festival, themed: “Gateway Games,” kicks off on Friday in Abeokuta and runs until May 30. (NAN)
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