The National Sports Festival, which began in 1973, was initiated by the Federal Government through the then National Sports Council as a soft-power tool to foster peace and national unity following the Nigerian Civil War. Since its inception, the NSF has grown into the country’s foremost grassroots sports development platform, promoting both modern and traditional sporting disciplines.
Speaking to journalists ahead of the opening ceremony slated for the main bowl of the Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta, Ogun State, a 50kg amateur female wrestler, Esther Anya, expressed confidence in the team’s preparedness.
"We are ready and eager to represent Ebonyi with pride. Based on the strengths we've seen across different events, we're targeting 20 medals in this year’s competition," Anya said.
Also expressing optimism, taekwondo athlete Uguru Chib Nwanne credited their consistent and intensive training over the past weeks for improved fitness and morale. "The level of training has pushed us to peak condition. We are going there to win," he said.
The state’s male football team is also undergoing rigorous preparation, hoping to make a strong impression at the festival.
Similarly, Ugwu Jephta Oko, Field Officer of the Nigeria Cricket Federation and coach of the Ebonyi State female cricket team, confirmed that the squad is in top form. He highlighted the inclusion of junior world cricket sensation, Lillian Ude, who was recently crowned the Best Female Junior Cricketer in Malaysia.
"Having Lillian in our team has significantly boosted morale. Her presence alone is an advantage," Oko noted.
The Chairman of the Forum of Coaches in Ebonyi, Peter Ugwu, who also serves as a wrestling coach, praised the determination and fitness levels of the athletes. He encouraged them to view the festival as a stepping stone to greater success in their sporting careers.
"This is an opportunity to showcase their talent on a national stage. It can either launch them to glory or hold them back depending on how seriously they take it," Ugwu advised.
Earlier, the Director of Sports in Ebonyi State, Mr. Emma Utobo, announced that the state would be competing in 11 sports where it has a competitive edge. These include wrestling, female basketball, cricket, athletics, male football, and taekwondo.
Utobo expressed strong optimism about the team’s prospects, citing the level of preparation and commitment among athletes and officials.
With the spirit of sportsmanship high and hopes even higher, Ebonyi State aims to make a strong statement at the 2025 National Sports Festival and bring home medals that reflect their hard work and determination.
