Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has praised Team Edo for their outstanding performance at the 9th National Youth Games held in Asaba, Delta State, where they secured third position overall.
The Governor, who received the victorious athletes at Government House, Benin City, alongside his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, commended their resilience and hard work, stating that their dedication had brought honour to Edo State.
In recognition of their achievement, Governor Okpebholo announced a cash reward of ₦10 million to the athletes and encouraged them to remain focused and more determined for greater victories in the future.
“I congratulate our team for putting in their best and securing third position with 33 gold, 18 silver and 28 bronze medals. This is an impressive achievement, but I challenge you to do more and put in your best to claim first position in the next edition. Edo deserves first place, and with commitment and discipline, we will get there,” the Governor said.
He added, “The State Government will continue to support you, but I want to see stronger dedication and more commitment in the coming years. For your efforts, I am pleased to reward you with the sum of ₦10 million. I believe with harder training, greater victories await Edo.”
Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Mr. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, praised the Governor’s support for sports development in the State, noting that prioritizing the welfare of athletes had played a key role in the team’s improved results.
According to him, “We thank His Excellency for providing the enabling environment for sports to thrive. For the first time, Team Edo returned with 33 gold, 18 silver, and 28 bronze medals, an unprecedented feat in the history of our participation in the National Youth Games. The motivation came from the Governor’s commitment to the wellbeing of our athletes.”
Enabulele, who presented the second runner-up trophy to the Governor, expressed confidence that with continued government backing, Edo athletes would surpass their present achievement and position the State as a dominant force in national sports.
The 9th National Youth Games in Asaba featured contingents from across the federation, with Team Edo standing out as one of the most successful participants.