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 representing Owan federal constituency, Prof. Julius Ihonbvere over the establishment of Federal University of Sports in Afuze Edo State.
Eshokene, a former executive director, Oil and Gas to former Governor Adams Oshiomhole said that the university recently signed into law by President Bola 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 time, 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 come to fruition is worthy of commendation.
He said that the multiplier effects of citing 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.
Also reacting, Dr Buddy Mustapha, a former executive director of the Ministry of Land and Survey, said the benefit of having a Sports University in Edo State could not be overemphasized, just as he hailed Prof Julius Ihonbvere and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“It will ensure economic growth by generating revenue for the state through sports tourism and encourage people to adopt a healthy lifestyle and contribute to the nation’s overall well-being. It is a thing of pride for us at Edo State,” he said.
According to Eshokene, the first federally owned Sport University will provide access to education, provide job opportunities, and improve the economy of the area.
He said, “We are indeed excited with our erudite Professor for ensuring that this is coming to Edo State. To say we are happy about this development would be an understatement; we are elated beyond comprehension.
“In terms of infrastructural development and political appointments, the federal constituency has 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 to 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 the Owan federal constituency in terms of access to education, job opportunities, and the 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.
