Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has unveiled a gesture of appreciation towards the state’s athletes who participated in the recently concluded National Youth Games in Asaba, Delta State. During a warm reception hosted for the athletes at the Governor’s Office in Ado-Ekiti, Governor Oyebanji pledged cash gifts as recognition of their efforts and achievements.
In addition to the monetary rewards, Governor Oyebanji also disclosed the government’s intention to elevate the training facilities available to these athletes, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to the growth of sports within the state.
The well-attended reception featured prominent figures, including Deputy Governor Chief (Mrs.) Monisade Afuye, Secretary to the State Government Dr. (Mrs.) Habibat Adubiaro, and Head of Service Engr. Sunday Kokolafe, alongside members of the state executive council and sports council officials.
During the gathering, Governor Oyebanji addressed the young athletes, praising them for their “impressive performances.” He extended apologies to both the athletes and Ekiti indigenes at home and abroad for the unfortunate incident concerning the attire of the state contingent during the Games’ opening ceremony. The Governor assured that those responsible for the mishap would face consequences for their actions.
Governor Oyebanji commended the athletes for their resilience in securing medals for the state and pledged continued government support to help them excel in their respective fields of specialization. He expressed disappointment with the unfair treatment experienced by the athletes, reaffirming that the government had provided ample funding to ensure their successful participation in the tournament.
Moreover, Governor Oyebanji called on relevant stakeholders to collaborate with the government in transforming sports into a lucrative industry, acknowledging that such a transformation requires collective efforts beyond the government’s capacity. The Governor further announced plans to sign into law the bill establishing the State Sports Commission within the next two weeks, a crucial step towards comprehensive sports development in Ekiti State.
Additionally, he revealed ongoing efforts to establish indoor games centers in the state next year, highlighting the forthcoming renovation of the Oluyemi Kayode stadium in Ado-Ekiti and other stadia in Ikere, Ijero, and Ikole. Governor Oyebanji reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to maximizing the potential of young talents in sports and various other domains.
In his address, Governor Oyebanji expressed sincere remorse for the conduct of sports council officials, noting that their actions were a source of embarrassment for Ekiti indigenes worldwide. Hee accepted responsibility as the Governor of Ekiti State and assured the athletes that justice would be served. He emphasized his administration’s resolve to prioritize sports development, emphasizing that the creation of the Ekiti State Sports Commission is imminent. The enthusiastic response of the young athletes during the reception conveyed their gratitude for the Governor’s timely support and encouragement.
Aisha Ololade, speaking on behalf of the team, expressed the athletes’ happiness with Governor Oyebanji’s swift intervention during the Games and the warm reception upon their return. She conveyed their collective motivation to achieve even more for the state in fuRture tournaments.t
