In a strategic move to bolster sports development across tertiary institutions, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Joint Campus Council (JCC), Edo State has expressed readiness to partner with the Edo State Government on an inter‑campus sports competition.
This was disclosed when members of the student body, led by the State Chairman, Comrade Ojumoola Miracle Timileyin, paid a courtesy visit to the Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, on Monday, in Benin City.
“It is our firm belief that by collaborating with your office, we can enhance sports development and promote unity across campuses,” said Timileyin, while presenting a blueprint for the competition designed to foster healthy rivalry and curb social vices among tertiary school students.
He commended the Commission’s recent achievements under Enabulele’s leadership.
“The visible transformations we have witnessed since your appointment are a testament to your unwavering passion and commitment to sports development,” the NANS Chairman said.
Building on this momentum, former Deputy Senate President of NANS, Comrade Imafidon Imadeyogie Stephen highlighted the broader social impact of such an initiative.
“This blueprint is unique in its design and has the potential to set a new precedent in our state,” he asserted.
He added that “When properly harnessed, sports become an antidote to cultism, drug abuse, and other social ills plaguing our campuses,” expressing optimism that the inter-campus tournament will instill discipline, foster teamwork, and create lasting bonds among students.
Responding on behalf of Hon. Enabulele, Deputy Director of Personnel at the Sports Commission, Mr. Kingsley Igie commended the delegation for the outreach.
“We are delighted by NANS’ enthusiasm and vision, and welcome the initiative with open arms,” he said.
Also Mr. Igie, assured the visiting NANS team that the Edo State Sports Commission would lend support to ensure the smooth execution of the tournament.
Addressing journalists after the meeting, the NANS Chairman, in a statement by his Media Adviser, Comrade Ogochukwu Isioma, emphasised that venues would rotate among major campuses such as the University of Benin, Ambrose Alli University, and Auchi Polytechnic to ensure equitable access and involvement for the tournament when implemented.
He also proposed forming a joint planning committee for the competition comprised of representatives from NANS, the Edo State Sports Commission, and selected tertiary institutions.
“This committee will oversee the tournament’s operational aspects, from team registration to match officiating,” Timileyin explained. “We will work together to ensure transparency, fairness, and maximum student participation.
“By providing these platforms, we not only nurture athletic talent but also promote Edo State as a hub capable of hosting significant sporting events. This tournament could lead to broader inter‑state and regional competitions in the future.”
As part of measures to formalise the partnership, NANS and Edo State Sports Commission are expected to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that would be drafted within the coming weeks.
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