Ilaboya Outlines Edo Sports Reforms, Backs Enabulele's Pragmatic Leadership













Ilaboya Outlines Edo Sports Reforms, Backs Enabulele's Pragmatic Leadership 


By Editor 


On Wednesday, Hon. Frank Ilaboya, the Executive Member for Edo North of the Edo State Sports Commission, represented the Executive Chairman, Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, during a live news program on EBS Television. Ilaboya highlighted the significant strides made in the state’s sports sector under the current administration.



Speaking during the programme, Ilaboya attributed the recent successes of Bendel Insurance FC, Edo Queens and Team Edo athletes to the visionary leadership of Governor Monday Okpebholo and the strategic direction provided by Hon. Enabulele since assuming office.

According to him, the transformation of Bendel Insurance FC from a relegation-threatened side to one of the league's strongest contenders was the result of deliberate planning, sound administration and effective leadership.

He noted that although the club narrowly missed securing a continental ticket last season, the Commission remains optimistic of achieving the feat in the coming campaign, particularly with the recruitment of quality players to strengthen the squad.

Ilaboya also praised Governor Okpebholo for appointing what he described as "a dynamic and forward-looking chairman" to lead the Sports Commission, adding that the administration has created an enabling environment for sports to flourish across the state.

He said the success of Edo Queens, who emerged champions of the Nigeria Women's Football League (NWFL), as well as Team Edo's dominance at major national competitions, including winning the second edition of the Niger Delta Sports Festival, reflects the state's renewed commitment to sporting excellence.

Commenting on the recent training session of Edo Queens attended by Edo State Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, Ilaboya described the visit as a significant morale booster for the players.

According to him, the Deputy Governor's decision to personally interact and train with the team demonstrated the government's genuine commitment to athlete welfare and motivation.

"When athletes see leaders identifying with them, it inspires confidence and strengthens their determination to excel," he said.

On Team Edo's impressive performances in athletics, gymnastics, boxing, weightlifting and other sports, Ilaboya said the achievements recorded so far were only the beginning of greater accomplishments.

He disclosed that the Commission is intensifying preparations for the forthcoming National Intermediate Games scheduled to hold in Lagos, expressing confidence that Edo would once again rank among the country's top-performing states.

"The structures are being strengthened, the athletes are motivated, and the vision is clear. What we have seen so far is only the beginning," he stated.

Ilaboya also described the exploits of Commonwealth Games silver medallist Esther Onyema, an Edo-born athlete, as a source of inspiration for the younger generation.

He noted that Onyema's achievements underscore the Commission's commitment to supporting athletes while motivating upcoming talents to aspire to represent Edo State and Nigeria at international competitions.

Speaking on Nigeria's campaign at the ongoing Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), Ilaboya expressed confidence in the Super Falcons' ability to secure another convincing victory and continue their quest for a record-extending 11th continental title by defeating Egypt later today.

He, however, cautioned against underestimating any opponent, stressing that there are no longer easy games in African football and urging the team to remain focused throughout the tournament.


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