NSF: 688 athletes compete in South-South zonal eliminations

From Ighomuaye Lucky, Benin

A total of 688 athletes from six South-South states are jostling to secure positions in the South-South Zonal Eliminations for Ball Games ahead of the 2025 National Sports Festival, scheduled to take place in Abeokuta, Ogun State, in May.

The competition, which began on 23rd February, will end on 28th February 2025.

Speaking during a media briefing at the Media Centre of the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin, the South-South Zonal Coordinator, National Sports Commission, Mr Peter Njoku, said that among the 688 athletes, there are 310 males and 378 females from Edo, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Rivers, Bayelsa, and Delta states competing at the zonal games.

He said the zone is noted to be the home for sports and urged participating teams that, aside from competing in games, they should build relationships.

On his part, the Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, urged the athletes to compete with passion, determination, and sportsmanship.

He also urged officials and referees at the games to ensure fair play and impartiality, maintaining that the credibility of the tournament depends on integrity and that nothing is expected other than unbiased, professional judgement to ensure that the best teams emerge victorious.

Enabulele said, “It is with great pleasure that I welcome you all to Edo State for the South-South Zonal Eliminations for Ball Games, a crucial stage in the journey to the National Sports Festival, Ogun 2025.

“Edo State is honoured to host this prestigious event, even with the short notice of less than four weeks, and I assure you that we are fully prepared to deliver a well-organised and successful competition.

“I would like to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to our visionary leader, the Governor of Edo State, His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Monday Okpebholo, and his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, for their relentless commitment to sports development.

“His administration’s support has provided us with the enabling environment to host this prestigious event.

“His leadership continues to create the foundation for the growth of sports in our dear state, and for that, we are truly appreciative.

“Sports have always been a powerful tool for unity, discipline, and youth empowerment.

“As we gather here today, let us remember that beyond competition, this event is an opportunity to foster friendship, teamwork, and mutual respect among our young athletes.

“We must continue to harness the power of sports to unite our youths and build a future filled with opportunities for them.

“To our athletes from Edo, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Bayelsa, Rivers, and Delta States, I urge you to compete with passion, determination, and sportsmanship.

“You are not just representing your states but also showcasing the strength and talent of the South-South region. Give it your best, and let your performance speak for itself.

“To our officials and referees, I emphasise the importance of fair play and impartiality in officiating. The credibility of this tournament depends on your integrity, and we expect nothing but unbiased and professional judgement to ensure that the best teams emerge victorious.

“Finally, I extend my gratitude to all stakeholders, sponsors, coaches, and sports administrators who have worked tirelessly to make this event a reality.”