A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Etsako East local government area of Edo State, Mr Vitalis Eshokene, has hailed President Bola Tinubu and the member of House of Representatives representing Owan Federal Constituency of the State, Prof. Julius Ihonbvere, over the establishment of Federal University of Sports in Afuze area of the State.
Eshokene said that the University Bill recently signed into law by President Tinubu, would be the biggest federal government presence not only in Owan federal constituency, but in the entire Edo North senatorial district since the advent of the present democracy.
He also noted that Prof. Ihonbvere has over the years demonstrated that politics is all about service to the people and contributing to nation-building, adding that his role in ensuring that the University of Sports came to fruition was worthy of commendation.
He said that the multiplier effects of siting the University in Afuze will completely change the lives of the people of Owan, Edo North, and indeed the State and the country in general.
According to Eshokene, aside from access to education, the first federal government-owned Sport University will provide job opportunities and improve the economy of the people in the area.
He said, “We indeed are excited with our erudite Professor for ensuring that this is coming to Edo State. To say we are happy about this development will be an understatement; we are elated beyond comprehension.
“In terms of infrastructural development and political appointments, the federal constituency had been neglected over the years.
“But with Ihonvbere and President Bola Tinubu, this narrative has changed. This particular change is one that many of us never expected it will happen in our lifetime.
“Federal University of Sport is by far the most important government presence we have longed for. This will change the entire landscape of Owan federal constituency in terms of access to education, job opportunities, and economy of the area.
“We are indeed grateful to the President for this noble feat and for assenting to the Bill, and also to Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, whose voice was heard and supported by his colleagues in the Green Chamber,” he stated.
Eshokene further said that the University marks a significant milestone in the advancement of sports education and infrastructure in Nigeria.
“Creating a national hub for sports education would serve not only to improve Nigeria’s standing in international sporting competitions but also to empower future generations with the skills necessary to thrive in a globalised economy,’ he stated.
Also reacting, Dr. Buddy Mustapha, a one-time Executive Director in the Ministry of Land and Survey, said the benefit of having a Sport University in Edo State cannot be overemphasized just as he hailed Prof. Ihonbvere and President Tinubu .
“It will ensure economic growth by generating revenue to state through sports tourism and encourage people to adopt a healthy lifestyle and contributing to the nation’s overall well-being. It is a thing of pride to us in Edo State,” Mustapha stated.
