South-South Zonal Eliminations Kick Off As Enabulele Rallies Support For Edo
By Osehobo Ofure, Benin City
The South-South Zonal Elimination Games for Ball Games have commenced in Edo State, setting the stage for athletes vying for spots at the 2025 National Sports Festival in Ogun State.
Welcoming athletes the Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission (ESSC), Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, assured of a well-organized competition despite the short preparation time.
Speaking at a press briefing in Benin City, Enabulele urged the contingents from Edo, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Bayelsa, Rivers, and Delta States to compete with passion, sportsmanship, and determination.
“Edo State is honored to host this prestigious event. We are fully prepared to deliver a successful competition,” he said.
Enabulele praised Governor Monday Okpebholo and Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa for their unwavering support for sports development in the state.
“Their leadership has created an enabling environment for Edo to host this significant event,” he noted.
Fixtures released by the ESSC show that Team Edo will compete across multiple sports, including Abula, Handball, Basketball, Volleyball, Hockey, Cricket, and Beach Volleyball.
Matches are taking place at venues such as Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Wire Road, Saint Maria Goretti Girls College, and Adolor College.
Enabulele encouraged Edo athletes to seize the opportunity and make the state proud. “Team Edo is ready to conquer. I urge our people to come out and support our teams,” he said.
Meanwhile the Zonal Coordinator of the National Sports Commission, Mr. Peter Njoku, has lauded Edo State for hosting despite the short notice. He disclosed that 688 athletes—378 females and 310 males—are competing in the elimination games.
Present at the media session were ESSC Permanent Secretary Mrs. Efe Amenze, Board Members, and National Sports Commission representatives, including Mr. Ubong Sylvester Essiel
