From Johnkennedy Uzoma, Owerri
Minister of Youths and Sports, Mr. Sunday Dare, has revealed the resolve of the Ministry to adopt a template of the Imo State Sports Commission as a way to move sports forward in the country.
Presenting his speech at the Sports summit organised by Imo State Sports Commission held at the Imo Concord Hotel, Owerri, the minister described Imo as a ‘home of sports’.
The minister who expressed gladness at the level of development of sports in the state since the present government came on board, promised to partner with the state government to achieve huge success in sports in the country
While describing sports development as a powerful tools that would help in the development of the youth population to enable them get job and make them feel impact of governance, the minister added that sports has power to change the world and speak to the youths the language they would understand.
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He also disclosed during the inspection of sports facilities in the state, that he saw hope, adding that the task of rebuilding Imo especially in sports was enormous that requires the contributions of everyone.
In his speech, Governor Emeka Ihedioha of Imo State, extolled the minister for his concern and contributions towards the promotion and success of sports in the country.
He recalled that upon assumption of office, he was confronted with total destruction and state of dilapidation of sport facilities in the state.
He stated the resolve of his administration to go into massive repair and upgrading of sports facilities in the state beginning with award of contract for the rehabilitation of bothDan Anyian and Grass Hoppers International Stadium, Owerri, among others.
Governor Ihedioha said that besides that, the state government has awarded contract on the Indoor Sports Hall, Gymnasium Department, Oguta Lake Resort as well as building of Olympic swimming pool at the stadium.
He reviewed the state government’s plans to bring back all sportsmen and women of the state that had migrated to other states of the federation.
In his welcome address, the Executive Chairman of Imo State Sports Commission, Chief Fan Ndubuoke, paid special tribute to the governor for his support to endure successful sports summit in the state.