Edo Lawmakers Pledge Support to Sports Commission During Oversight Visit

Moshood Karim

Members of the Edo State House of Assembly visited the Edo State Sports Commission on Tuesday, 29 April 2025, as part of their legislative oversight duties. During the visit, they expressed their commitment to providing the necessary support to enhance the commission’s ability to elevate sports in the state.

Led by the Chairman of the House Committee on Sports, Honourable Donald Ojemeh Okogbe, the lawmakers were given a tour of the facilities at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium Complex by the commission’s Executive Chairman, Honourable Amadin Desmond Enabulele, and his board. The lawmakers commended the efforts of the Sports Commission since Enabulele assumed office four months ago, pledging prompt legislative intervention to address challenges.

Honourable Okogbe highlighted the need for assistance with the maintenance of infrastructure, noting that gaps had been identified that could hinder the commission’s progress. He assured that the legislative body would support the commission in addressing these issues.

“The Sports Commission is part of the state’s executive arm, and our role is to provide oversight, ensuring accountability,” Okogbe said. “We are committed to bridging any gaps where necessary, including seeking recommendations to the Governor to enhance funding and encourage private sector involvement.”

Okogbe further stressed the importance of public-private collaboration in sports development, urging philanthropists and corporate entities to support the commission’s initiatives. He also pointed out that the current maintenance contract with Peculiar Ultimate Concerns Ltd had expired, and this was an area in need of urgent attention.

“The issue is not with the Sports Commission board but with the inherited liabilities. Our legislative intervention will ensure that the necessary support is provided quickly, preventing long-term setbacks,” he added.

In response, Honourable Enabulele expressed his gratitude for the visit and the lawmakers’ support. He acknowledged the challenges posed by the expired maintenance contract and confirmed that discussions with Peculiar Ultimate Concerns Ltd were underway to explore the possibility of renewing the contract.

Enabulele also shared some of the board’s recent achievements, including the restructuring of Bendel Insurance and Edo Queens. He noted that the improvements had helped Bendel Insurance rise out of the relegation zone, while Edo Queens were thriving in the Nigeria Women’s Football League. Both teams are now pushing for continental competition qualifications.

Looking ahead, Enabulele revealed plans to launch the Governor’s Cup, a grassroots sports competition aimed at fostering community participation and nurturing young talent. He also outlined a broader vision for the commission, which includes reviving the School Sports Festival, the Ogbe Hard Court Tennis Tournament, and other initiatives to promote both sports and tourism in Edo State.

“The resurgence of sports in Edo State is a key priority,” Enabulele concluded. “We are committed to bringing back these important events to engage the community and inspire future generations of athletes.”