By Ekemini James
Akwa Ibom in recent times has become the hub of sporting activities in Nigeria. This found expression during the official opening of the State Youth Sport Festival 2017 for Primary and Secondary Schools across the State.
Mr. Udom Emmanuel reaffirmed commitment to building a vibrant and strong sporting culture and engaging the youth positively which he noted will brighten the State chance at international events.
He made the remark while addressing participants at the ongoing Youth Sport Festival at Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
Mr. Udom said he was delighted to see athletes in colours representing their Local Government assuring that utmost priority will be given to sporting activities in order to boost the state competitiveness and place her among the best in the country.
"This administration sees sport development as a valuable gift to our children and youths. We know that when we expose then to the best sporting facilities at an early age, we have given them wings to soar and the sky can only be their limit.
Such thinking gave vent to the establishment of sport centres in the ten Federal Constituencies of the State by my administration.
Today, sport is beyond the rubrics of the rhetoric of entertainment. The business side of sport is indeed, a goldmine.
So, beyond the story of this festival, our youths should be launched to the glory of the money spinning venture of sports. We know that the secret of the Lionel Messis, the Christian Ronaldos, the Serena
Williams, the Usain Bolts and others world stars, is hidden, first and foremost, in early exposure to world-class facilities particularly at an early age. So, this catch-them-young initiative is well situated.
However, as you begin today, remember that a good athlete does not begin to run with money in his pocket but with hope in his heart and dreams in his head. Aim at the trophy but prepare for the juice journey that this festival may eventually set you on. A trophy may carry dust but dreams flow like streams forever"
While commending the organizer for their untiring efforts and show of patriotism, the Governor charged them to do the State proud by surpassing the performance of previous years in any future task.
Speaking after the Governor's speech, the Minister for Youth and Sport Solomon Dalung stated that beyond the desire to win future competition, the philosophy of the game was to attain optimum health through mass participation in regular physical activities.
He thanked the Governor Mr. Udom Emmanuel for the initiative and establishment of sport centres at the ten federal constituencies which has demonstrated his love and commitment to sports development in the State.
The event featured the official opening ceremony of the Akwa Ibom State Youth Sports Festival, Track and Field Exhibition, Oat taking by officials and Athletes, Match pass by Athletes, Calisthenics Display, Festival football Match Onna vs Nsit Ubium, Half Time (Cultural Display/Artiste), Parade of stars and Sport Role Models.
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