The Edo State Sports Commission, under the leadership of its Executive Chairman, Hon. Amadin Enabulele, has embarked on a strategic initiative to revitalize the sports landscape in the state. Central to this vision is the prioritization of Governor Godwin Obaseki’s developmental blueprint, particularly the “Catch Them Young” program, which aims to nurture young talents and build a robust foundation for sporting excellence. This focus signifies a shift from solely pursuing immediate victories to cultivating long-term athletic development and sustainable sporting success in Edo State.
Enabulele convened a meeting with chairmen of various sports associations to articulate this vision and ensure its effective implementation. The meeting served as a platform to discuss preparations for the upcoming National Sports Festival in Ogun State, scheduled for May. While acknowledging the importance of performing well at the festival, Enabulele emphasized that winning should not overshadow the primary goal of talent development. He underscored the need to align the state’s sporting objectives with the governor’s long-term developmental plan, which emphasizes nurturing young athletes and creating a pathway for their continued growth beyond immediate competitions.
The “Catch Them Young” program, as championed by Governor Obaseki, takes center stage in this strategic approach. This initiative aims to identify and nurture budding sporting talents at a young age, providing them with the necessary training, resources, and support to develop their skills and reach their full potential. By focusing on grassroots development, the program seeks to create a sustainable pipeline of talented athletes who can represent Edo State at various levels of competition in the years to come. This emphasis on nurturing young talent is seen as a crucial investment in the future of sports in Edo State.
To ensure transparency and accountability in the selection process for the National Sports Festival, Enabulele announced a screening exercise for chairmen, coaches, and secretaries of the various sports associations. This measure is designed to ensure that the selection of athletes is based on merit and skill, rather than favoritism or other extraneous factors. The commitment to a transparent and merit-based selection process underscores the commission’s dedication to fostering a fair and equitable environment for all athletes, promoting healthy competition, and ensuring that the most deserving individuals represent Edo State at the national level.
Furthermore, Enabulele assured the sports association chairmen of unwavering support from Governor Obaseki and his deputy, Philip Shaibu. This assurance of governmental backing reinforces the importance placed on sports development within the state’s overall development agenda. The commitment from the highest levels of government provides the necessary resources and political will to drive the implementation of the “Catch Them Young” program and ensure the long-term success of sporting initiatives in Edo State. This backing also empowers the sports commission and the various associations to operate effectively and pursue their goals with confidence.
Andy Momodu, Chairman of the Golf Association, expressed his appreciation for Enabulele’s leadership and the board’s commitment to a merit-based approach. He emphasized the importance of prioritizing skill and merit over favoritism in athlete selection, aligning with Enabulele’s vision for transparent and equitable athlete development. This shared vision fosters a culture of meritocracy within the sporting community, encouraging athletes to strive for excellence based on their abilities and dedication. Momodu’s endorsement reflects a collective commitment to fostering an environment where talent and hard work are rewarded, ultimately contributing to the overall development of sports in Edo State. He also expressed optimism about the performance of Edo State athletes at the upcoming National Sports Festival, reflecting the collective confidence in the potential of the athletes and the effectiveness of the state’s sports development programs.
