By Godfrey Osejele
The Governor of Edo State, Sen. Monday Okpebholo has asserted that the State Exercise in commemoration of the year 2025 International Olympic Day Run is a morale to the development of sport in the State.
Sen. Okpebholo, represented by the Deputy Governor Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, extolled the vision of the Founder, Pierre De Coubertin, whose aspiration was to enhance the world through the transformative power of sport. He asserted that engaging in sports fortifies the mind and body, which promotes robust health and wellbeing. Appreciating participants, he recommended them to strive for excellence and to fuel their aspirations, saying that sports ignite dreams, disseminate joy and foster unity among people.
The Governor asserted that the event consistently cultivates connections and solidarity which is the profound essence and magnificence of sport. He added that such propels the world into motion, transcending geographical boundaries and embracing expressions of movement. On expectations from the Edo State Sports Commission, he commended the Chairman, Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele and the Board for their capabilities and concluded that Edo is in the right direction sport-wise.
Hon Enabulele, who led the exercise with athletes, coaches, secretaries, staff of the State’s Sport Commission and the general public, said it is not about winning, but about participation, being active and also about coming together as a community. He stated that it is a reminder that sport belongs to everyone regardless of age, background and ability. He appreciated all the participants, saying that their presence is a testament to their commitment to health, sportsmanship, and unity. He disclosed that he had proposed to the Governor about holding the Governor’s fitness day every third Saturday of the month and expecting approval.
The exercise which lasted for an hour, started from the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, through Ekenhua Road, through Plymouth Road, through Akenzua Road and back to the Stadium. Highpoint of the event was the presentation of the certificate of participation to the Governor, by an Olympian, who participated in the 1972 Olympic Tournament, Coach Isaac Iguorie. Other recipients of the certificate of participation included the Permanent Secretary of the Edo State Sports Commission, Mrs. A. P. Efe Amenze amongst others.
