By Victor Nwegede, Abakaliki.
In a rousing send-off ceremony held Friday at the PA Ngele Oruta Township Stadium, Abakaliki, Comrade Hillary Ogbonna Obiessie, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Youth Development and Sports, proudly represented the Governor of Ebonyi State, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, as he addressed contingents departing for the 2025 National Sports Festival (NSF) in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
Speaking with conviction, Obiessie hailed Governor Nwifuru as a “sports-loving leader” whose unwavering support has positioned Ebonyi as an emerging powerhouse in Nigeria’s sports landscape.
“I am honoured to stand here today and commend our governor who has given us this platform to compete and shine like other states. You are not just athletes—you are ambassadors of Ebonyi State. We don’t make noise; we let our achievements speak volumes,” Obiessie charged.
He emphasized discipline, unity, and proper conduct, urging athletes to maintain the image of the state both on and off the field.
“You’re wearing the mirror of the state—our peace, our progress, our pride. Do not tarnish that image. Walk tall, act right, and let the media make the noise about your excellence.”
Obiessie praised the state’s Director of Sports, describing him as a “seasoned icon” in Nigeria’s sporting community, and encouraged athletes to report any challenges for swift resolution by the leadership team.
Highlighting the emergence of Abakaliki FC, the state-owned football club now in the NNL semi-finals of the Nigeria Challenge Cup, Obiessie pointed to it as a symbol of Ebonyi’s rapid progress under the current administration.
“That club is just months old and already making headlines. It’s not by chance—it’s divine, and it’s driven by the vision of our governor,” he noted.
Comrade Emmanuel Utobo, Director of Sports and Chairman of the All Directors of Sports Forum in Nigeria, reaffirmed the team's preparedness.
“Our athletes have been in intensive training. The Paralympians have been in closed camp and others in open camp. We’re fully prepared,” he assured.
Utobo expressed gratitude to the state government, acknowledging its continuous investment in sports development as a catalyst for recent successes.
Some of the contingents including Esther Anya and Wilfred David shared their determination to make the state proud by winning gold medals at the games.
The departure was filled with optimism and unity—reflecting Ebonyi State’s growing stature in Nigeria’s sports arena.
Recall that 91 contingents from Ebonyi will compete in 11 disciplines, including athletics, taekwondo, swimming, cricket, wrestling, and more.
