Edo State’s investment in grassroots sports development is yielding results, with Team Edo recording impressive performances at competitions in Abuja and Asaba.
The Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, commended Governor Monday Okpebholo for his commitment to talent identification and grassroots sports development.
At the National Open Traditional Sports Championship in Abuja, Team Edo emerged overall champions with eight gold and four silver medals in Ayo, Dambe and Kokowa.
The state also excelled at the 4th South-South Under-13 Badminton Tournament in Asaba. Achinbong Joel won gold in the boys’ singles and mixed doubles events, while Ita Bright also secured gold in mixed doubles.
In chess, Edo’s Miss Omoruyi Sandra emerged champion in the Women’s Under-2000 Rapid and Blitz categories at the 2026 FIDE World Amateur Rapid and Blitz Chess Championship in Abuja.
Sandra had earlier won gold for Team Edo at the 2nd Niger Delta Games in Benin City.
Enabulele, in a statement issued through his Media Aide, Edoko Wilson Edoko, said the achievements demonstrate the impact of the Governor’s “Catch Them Young” initiative.
He said the Sports Commission would continue to provide opportunities for young athletes to develop their talents, compete at the highest level and bring honour to Edo State and Nigeria.
“Under Governor Monday Okpebholo, we are witnessing a renewed commitment to grassroots sports development. These achievements show that when young talents are identified, nurtured and supported, they can excel and bring honour to Edo State and Nigeria,” he said