Frankie Omokhua, Enugu
Enugu state government’s plan to ensure a successful participation of its contingent at the upcoming 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival in Abeokuta, Ogun State, is receiving the necessary attention it deserves.
To this end, the Enugu State Ministry of Youth and Sports has disclosed that athletes are presently undergoing closed camping to prepare well for the festival.
The Director, Organizing in the Ministry, Boniface Onovo, in a chat with Sportsday on Sunday said the government has given moral and financial support to the contingent to be able to compete favourably among their peers.
“It’s important to let you know that His Excellency, Governor Peter Mbah, has committed so much to making sure that athletes and officials that will be representing the state are accorded the support they need to excel at the National Sports Festival”.
“In short, the state is not leaving any stone unturned towards achieving a remarkable presence during the 2-week event”.
Onovo also made known that Enugu state will be taking part in 12 sporting events which include Basketball (Male), Handball (Male), Football (Female), Athletics, Para-athletics, Para-powerlifting, Tennis, Judo, Badminton, Boxing, Wrestling and Swimming, while a total of 88 athletes and 26 technical officials will be donning the state’s colours at the Games.
“A total of 88 athletes and 26 technical officials are to represent the state at the “Gateway Games”. “After a thorough process of selection, we can assure you that the “Coal City” state is determined to make a statement”.
Meanwhile, Enugu State Commissioner for Sports, Barrister Lloyd Ike Ekweremadu Jr., has promised the sum of One Hundred Thousand Naira (N100,000) to any athlete who wins Gold medal at the festival, which is the Commissioner’s instant reward for excellence.
“As part of remuneration for athletes, the Honourable Commissioner for Sports has promised a cash reward for athletes who are able to win Gold medal. It will be an instant reward and appreciation for making the state proud”, said Onovo.
In addition, the state has already concluded arrangements to have all the athletes well kitted for the Games courtesy of Governor Mbah.
Enugu State athletes will be departing for the National Sports Festival on Friday, May 16, 2025, ahead of the opening ceremony on May 18, 2025.
