ABUJA/Nigeria: In a momentous ceremony held at the media center within the hallowed grounds of the MKO Abiola Stadium, National Stadium Complex, Abuja, Senator John Owan Enoh, the Minister of Sports Development officially inaugurated the Main Organising Committee (MOC) tasked with orchestrating the 22nd National Sports Festival scheduled to taking place in Ogun State in the upcoming year.
With an air of expectancy and optimism in the atmosphere, the Minister did not mince words as he delivered an impassioned charge to the committee members. Their mission was clear: to toil tirelessly and ensure the forthcoming games are not just seamless but also a resounding success.
Senator Owan Enoh underscored the essence of hard work in crafting a triumph in sports, emphasizing the role of the Ogun state government’s commitment and the remarkable composition of the committee as vital assets in surmounting the hurdles that might come their way.
In a noteworthy departure from convention, Senator John Owan Enoh highlighted the transformational shift brought about by the National Sports Industry Policy. He articulated that sports ought to be viewed through the lens of business, not just recreation. He pointed out that, after more than two decades, the National Sports Games had matured into a brand capable of luring corporate sponsorship. The Minister urged the committee to package the games in a manner that would make it irresistible to the private sector for sponsorship, expounding on the vast economic potential inherent in sports. He asserted that, just as private sector-driven sports industries flourished in other parts of the world, there was no reason why it could not thrive in Nigeria.
In a heartfelt plea, Senator Owan Enoh beseeched the private sector and corporate organizations to rally behind sports development in the country, echoing the immense impact they could have in this arena.
Ismaila Abubakar, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry and Chairman of the Organizing Committee, took the podium to respond on behalf of the newly appointed committee members. He assured the Minister that the committee was acutely aware of the monumental responsibility resting on their shoulders. Abubakar pledged that they would mobilize every available human and material resource to ensure the games are executed flawlessly, without a hint of disruption.
Earlier in the proceedings, Wasiu Isiaka, the Ogun State Commissioner of Sports, provided a robust assurance to the Minister, affirming that the state was impeccably poised to orchestrate an exemplary sports event.
The Main Organising Committee (MOC) of the National Sports Festival, a veritable team of experts and enthusiasts, comprises Ismaila Abubakar as Chairman, with Bukola Olapade, serving as Vice Chairman. The committee also boasts members of great distinction, including Dr. Paul Onyeudo, Olufehinti Olusegun, Mohammed Manga, Gregory Zi, Ms. Fadeke Fadeyibi, Engr. Abolore Alanamu, Patrick Okeke, Mrs. Amaka Ashiofu, Prof. Olawale Moronkola, Engr. Habu Gumel, Sunday Odebode, Emmanuel Utobo, Bamiduro Olumide, and Brendan Ndifon. Together, they carry the aspirations and dreams of a nation looking forward to an unforgettable National Sports Festival in Ogun State next year.
