By Lucky Isibor
A total of 688 athletes from the six states in the South -South geopolitical zone are competing to secure positions in zonal elimination games ahead the 2025 National Sports Festival holding in Abeokuta, Ogun State in May.
The competition which began on 23rd will end on the 28th of February.
Speaking during a media briefing at the media centre of the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium , Benin City , Edo State on Tuesday, the South-South Zonal Coordinator , National Sports Commission, Mr Peter Njoku that, there are 310 males and 378 females from Edo, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Rivers, Bayelsa and Delta states competing at the zonal games.
While noting that the zone is reputed to be the home for sports, Njoku urged participating teams to aside competing in games, build relationships .
On his part, the Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele thanked Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo who graciously approved the hosting of the sports meet inspite of the short notice and urged the athletes to compete with passion, determination and sportsmanship.
He also urged officials and referees at the game to ensure fair play, impartiality, maintaining that the credibility of the tournament depends on integrity adding that nothing is expected, than unbiased, professional judgment to
ensure that the best teams emerge victorious.
According to Enabulele, “I assure you that we are fully prepared to deliver a well-organized and successful
competition.
“I would like to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to our visionary leader, the Governor of Edo State His Excellency Distinguished Senator Monday Okpebholo, his Deputy Rt. Hon, Dennis Idahoda for his relentless commitment to sports development along with his administration’s support has provided us with the enabling environment to host this prestigious event. His leadership continues to create the foundation for the growth of sports in our dear state and for that we are truly appreciative.
“Sports have always been a powerful tool for unity, discipline, and youth empowerment. As we gather here today, let us remember that beyond competition, this event is an opportunity to foster friendship, teamwork, and
mutual respect among our young athletes. We must continue to harness the power of sports to unite our youths and build a future filled with opportunities for them. To our athletes from Edo, Akwa Ibom, Cross river, Bayelsa, Rivers and Delta State, I urge you to compete with passion, determination, and sportsmanship.
“You are not just representing your states but also showcasing the strength and talent of the South-South region. Give it your best, and let your performance
speak for itself.
“To our officials and referees, I emphasize the importance of fair play and impartiality in officiating. The credibility of this tournament depends on your integrity, and we expect nothing but unbiased and professional judgment to
ensure that the best teams emerge victorious.”