Sports

First National Council on Sports Meeting commences in Enugu

Published

5 months ago

May 20, 2024

Joel Ajayi

The vision of Senator John Owan Enoh,the Minister of Sports Development to revolutionize Nigerian sports development through the introduction and implementation of a raft of policies got underway in Enugu on Monday with the commencement of the 1st National Council on Sports, the first of its kind since the de-merger of Ministry of Youths and Sports.

The 3-Day Council Meeting taking place at the behest of the Ministry of Sports Development under the guidance and leadership of Senator John Owan Enoh with the Enugu State Government as the host state is expected to ratify progressive and enduring policies that will revolutionize sports administration and development in Nigeria.

In her welcome address, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Sports Development, Mrs. Tinuke Watti noted that the first National Council on Sports, coming after the de-merger of the Ministry of Youths and Sports reflects the importance of Sports in the Renewed Hope Agenda of the present administration.

According to the Permanent Secretary, the theme of the Council meeting, “Sports for National Unity and Socio-Economic Growth”, is of critical relevance as the country navigate the challenges and opportunities of our current evolution.
Identifying national unity as the critical goal of any nation, she underscored the important role sports can play in achieving it.She said,” Sports have been a cornerstone of our nation’s cultural fabric. They transcend the barriers of language, ethnicity, religion, uniting us under the common banner of competition, achievement and collective pride.”

Apart from fulfilling its core functions,she said that sports constitute a major industry with the capacity to generate employment, drive economic development and improve public health. The Permanent Secretary canvassed for the adoption of a holistic and inclusive approach to sports development to foster partnerships between the government, private sector and international bodies.

She expressed her implicit confidence in the ability of experts and consultants who will lead technical sessions during the meeting to come up with policies that would serve as a guide for improved decisions in the sports sector.

In his welcome address, the Governor of Enugu State Dr. Peter MBAH represented by the Deputy Governor, said that the state was honoured to host the Council meeting on Sports composed of sports administrators, Policymakers, technocrats and stakeholders who share a common vision of advancing sports in Nigeria.

“As we gather for the technical session of this esteemed council,we are not only participants in a meeting but also pioneers charting a new course for the future of sports in Nigeria.”

He advised the meeting to engage in open, constructive and forward thinking discussions and to leverage our collective expertise to address challenges facing the sports sector.

According to the governor, critical areas such as infrastructure development, athlete welfare,funding mechanism, coaching standards and grassroots sports programmes require the utmost attention and concerted effort of the Council meeting.

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Sports

Korean Ambasador Thumbs NTF, Pledges More Support

Published

8 hours ago

October 21, 2024

The Gleamer

..As Africa Teakwondo Union upgrade Korean Ambassador’s tourney to G1 ranking tournament
Joel Ajayi

The Korean Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency KIM Pankyu, has thumbed the level of growth and development in the game of teakwoodo across Nigeria as he pledged more supports to the federation to enable more growth.

He gave this assurance weekend in Abuja at the just concluded 12th edition of Korean Ambassador’s Cup Teakwondo Tournament where over 200 teakwondo player competed for honour.

According to him, as you know, Taekwondo is a traditional Korean martial art loved by many people around the world. Not only does Taekwondo enhance your physical strength, it also disciplines your mind and soul.

“Taekwondo encourages competition, but at the same time teaches us fairness and respect. These aspects helped Taekwondo become a global sport. And now, thanks to people, I am proud to see the popularity of Taekwondo grow in Nigeria.

“The Ambassador’s Championship is part of our efforts to promote Taekwondo in Nigeria. It also aims to help Nigerian athletes to improve their skills so that they can compete on the global stage.”

And we will continuing supporting Nigeria to a stage where Nigeria will win gold medal in the game at Olympic or any world stage.

In his address, the President of NTF said that, the tournament creating a platform fforall our athletes to showcase their skills and passion for this beautiful martial art.

“I also want to express my sincere gratitude to the coaches and officials who have devoted their time and expertise to support our athletes. Your hard work behind the scenes has been instrumental in making this championship a resounding success. It is your commitment that nurtures the talent of our athletes, shaping them into the champions of tomorrow.

“I am filled with optimism about the future of Taekwondo in Nigeria. Together, we will continue to work diligently to improve our training programs, expand our reach, and develop more young athletes. I envision a Nigeria where Taekwondo thrives at all levels, from grassroots programs to international competitions.”

He thanked all sponsors and partners whose generous contributions have contributed to the success of 12th Korean Ambassador Cup.In his remarked, the President Africa Teakwondo Union, Mr Ide Issaka, who was happy with level of progress in Nigeria announced that African union has decided to upgrade Korean Ambassador Taekwondo Cup Championship that has been existing in the last twelve years to the G1 ranking tournament in Africa where other Africa country will participating.

President who was represented by his vice president; chief Jonathan Nnaji the Africa Union is happy about the progress of the Taekwondo in the country expressed that, Taekwondo union, Africa Taekwondo union will continue to support the Taekwondo federation.

“It’s worthy of note that the Korean Ambassador has been sustaining the sponsorship for all these years. This to a very high essence, which has helped in no small measure in making Nigeria and Africa great. Also, the world at large.”

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