In an unparalleled move to foster global competitiveness, the Edo State Government has taken the initiative to host the inaugural Gymnastics Clubs/Associations Super Championship.
Setting the stage for young gymnasts, the championship commenced at the Indoor Sports Complex of the renowned Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City.
Mrs. Maryann Shaibu, the wife of Edo State’s Deputy Governor, delivered a compelling speech during the championship’s opening ceremony. She encouraged the 17 participating clubs, hailing from eight different states, to exhibit exemplary sportsmanship.
Mrs. Shaibu emphasized the significance of extracurricular activities and expressed her unwavering support for the growth and success of all contestants. Her message extended to the coaches and organizing team, urging them to ensure strict adherence to rules and regulations, thus ensuring a truly exceptional championship.
Highlighting the championship’s broader purpose, Mrs. Sabina Chikere, the Permanent Secretary of the Edo State Sports Commission, emphasized the development of the state’s athletes.
She stressed the commission’s dedicated effort to promote grassroots sports development, aiming to identify and nurture young talents.
Mrs. Chikere further revealed plans to incorporate sports into the school curriculum, acknowledging that sports education plays a vital role in improving cognitive abilities. If all goes according to plan, the new academic subject, “Sports,” will be introduced in schools from September onwards.
Dr. Emmanuel Igbinosa, the Executive Director of Sports Development and Operations at the Edo State Sports Commission, reiterated the government’s commitment to advancing sports within the state. Acknowledging the state-of-the-art facilities in the stadium,
Dr. Igbinosa expressed optimism about harnessing them to cultivate local talents. He emphasized that these investments would propel Edo State towards becoming a hub of elite sports, enabling them to compete on the international stage.
