Sports Commission Boss, Amb. Ogbonna, Doles Out Fund for Early Preparations of NSF

The Imo State Sports Commission Chairman, Hon. Prince Sir Eleazar Onyewuchi Ogbonna (Ambassador), has reaffirmed his commitment to advancing sports development in the state. On Thursday, January 22, 2025, he held a meeting with Imo State athletes, directors, and coaches at the Dan Anyiam Stadium, where he addressed key issues affecting their preparations for upcoming competitions. Some of the coaches frowned at lack of adequate training equipments, workers welfare, employment of new athletes (since 85% of sports commission staff is mostly coaches), likewise insecurity at the Stadium.

During the meeting, Amb. Ogbonna demonstrated his dedication to the athletes’ success by disbursing a substantial amount. This funding is intended to facilitate the commencement of camping exercises ahead of the National Sports Festival (NSF) Zonal Elimination, slated for February 2025. The early preparation is aimed at ensuring that Imo State athletes are adequately equipped to compete and excel in the festival. He also resolved to team up with the Sports Commissioner, Hon Obinna Evaristus Onyeocha to look into the athletes challenges, by setting up a task force to ensure better security at the stadium likewise giving the sports facilities a facelift. 

This gesture aligns with the promise made by Governor Hope Uzodinma during the Town Hall Meeting Phone-In Program, where he pledged to reward athletes who have brought glory to the state. The governor also assured incentives for those who will represent Imo State with distinction at the National Sports Festival, scheduled to take place in Ogun State in May 2025.

Amb. Ogbonna’s proactive approach underscores the state government’s commitment to nurturing sports talent and providing the necessary resources for athletes to excel on national and international platforms. The gesture has been widely applauded by stakeholders, who view it as a step toward fostering excellence in sports and upholding Imo State's reputation in competitive events.