Gov Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti says his government will invest heavily in sports development in order to discover and nurture talents in the state to global reckoning.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Oyebanji made this known on Tuesday, during the groundbreaking ceremony of the multimillion naira Indoor Sports Complex in Ado- Ekiti.
Describing sports as a veritable means to stamp out poverty, joblessness and crime from the society, Oyebanji said his government would expand the scope of opportunities for Ekiti youths, who are richly endowed with requisite skills in the sector.
The governor said that the indoor sports complex project was in firm alignment with the Human Capital Development; and Job Creation and Youth Development pillars and policy thrust of his administration.
He said that his administration’s special focus and propensity was to build profitable careers for the productive youths in every sector of the economy.
Oyebanji said: “I have been to the stadium, I know you have not been training under the most conducive condition, in spite of that, you are still winning laurels for Ekiti. I commend you for this.”
The governor commended Sen. Opeyemi Bamidele of Ekiti for embarking on the construction of stadia in some towns in Ekiti Central Senatorial District, saying “this giant leap will further complement the government’s strides in the sector.”
Also, the Chairman, House Committee on Sports Development, Mr Idowu Odebunmi, said the facility would go a long way in stemming the spiraling tides of internet fraud and robbery that had become rampant among the youths.
According to him, the complex when completed will enable optimal development of sports talents of youths in the state.
The Technical Advisor to the Governor on Sports, Dr Olusola Osetoba, said the facility would help engage the youths and offer them veritable avenue to excel in local and international competitions.
Osetoba commended the current administration for turning sports into a sustainable career that could create wealth and fame for the youths.
“This facility will be an indoor sports facility for Baseball, Volleyball, modern gymnasm and others.
“The effect will be far-reaching. It will help in fostering youth development through providing enabling environment to get their skills developed to participate in national competitions.
“With this facility, we can have opportunity to host national competitions that will boost local economy.
“I am indeed glad that this administration has positioned Ekiti as a hub of sports in Nigeria,” he said. (NAN)
