The Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, has unleashed the power of Olympic legends with a profound commitment to developing young athletes to world record holders.
In a momentous meeting at the Government House in Benin City, the governor hosted three former Nigerian athletes and Olympians: Dr. Godwin Obasogie (Hurdles, 100m), Dr. Bruce I. Ijirigho (100m), and Charlton Ehizuelen (Long jump). Accompanying them was Yusuf Ali, Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission and a former world champion himself.
Emphasizing the state government’s sports development policy, Governor Obaseki expressed his dedication to discovering young talents through the school sports program.
This initiative aims to provide young people in the state with opportunities to nurture their skills and rise to stardom.
Honoring the achievements of the three Olympians, the governor acknowledged the privilege of having them in the state and highlighted the potential to leverage their heroics to promote the state’s sports development program.
He emphasized the importance of inspiring and motivating the younger generation through the Olympians’ remarkable stories, creating alternative voices for success.
Governor Obaseki also announced the Olympians’ appointment as patrons of various sports associations in the state, recognizing their invaluable contributions to the sporting world.
Furthermore, the governor endorsed two proposals presented by the Olympians: a reunion for the class of 1971 athletes team in December this year, and the inaugural Edo/Delta State Yearly Competition for Secondary Schools, which will be held annually on a rotational basis between the Edo and Delta state governments starting next year.
In response, the Olympians commended Governor Obaseki’s exceptional commitment to developing top-notch sports infrastructure in the state, particularly highlighting the world-class Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium and its excellent facilities.
