Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji has announced cash gifts for the state’s athletes that participated in the just concluded 2023 National Youth Games in Asaba, Delta State.
The governor spoke at the special state reception for the athletes yesterday at the Governor’s Office in Ado- Ekiti, lauding the young athletes for their impressive performances.
The reception was attended by Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye; Secretary to the State Government, Dr (Mrs) Habibat Adubiaro; Head of Service, Engr Sunday Kokolafe; members of the state executive council and officials of the state’s sports council.
Oyebanjo expressed displeasure at the unfair treatment meted out on the athletes during the competition by the officials of the state sports council, adding that there would be dire consequences for officials that caused the harrowing experience for the athletes.
He said that the government is already investigating circumstances that led to the poor kitting of the state contingent at the opening ceremony of the games and would ensure that erring officials do not go unpunished.
The governor clarified that the government provided the sports council with funds for the successful outing of Ekiti athletes at the tournament.
Oyebanji, who pledged cash gifts to each of the young athletes, called on relevant stakeholders to join the government in making sports a lucrative business, as the government cannot do it alone.
Oyebanji also assured that they would continue to pay more attention to sports development, noting that he would sign the bill establishing the state sports commission within the next two weeks with a view to promoting all-round sport development in the state.
He added that efforts are in top gear to set up indoor games centers in the state next year, saying that his administration would leave no stone unturned in the quest to maximize the potentials of young talents in sports and other areas.
