Progress in the Anambra State sports sector, especially at the grassroots level, has attracted commendation of the state chapter of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, SWAN.
Chairman of SWAN in the state, Chimezie Anaso, who gave the commendation at the 2023 SWAN Week Lecture/Award Night held in Awka, explained that from the rebirth of school sports, success at the National Youth Games, formation of a state-owned football club and just-concluded traders competition, the Anambra State Government had proven that it meant business with sports development.
He said the SWAN Week is an annual event that provides stakeholders the opportunity to evaluate activities in the sector during the outgoing year, and set the agenda for the coming year.
In his lecture, the Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Olympic Committee, NOC, Tony Nezianya, said sports has so much benefit for the society, adding that grassroots sports development is a worthy path to toe; as it would activate the abundant talents of Anambra and Nigerian youths in general.
Nezianya, represented by a sports enthusiast and Lecturer at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Professor Chris Abakare, suggested a redesign of the education system to incorporate mandatory physical education programmes that focus on skill development, knowledge of sports fundamentals and creation of opportunities for students to participate in competitive leagues.
He described grassroots sports as a means of identifying, nurturing, and supporting young athletes at the grassroots level; who have the passion and raw talents but lack the necessary resources, facilities, and opportunities to excel.
To develop the sports sector, Nezianya called for an increased investment and active collaboration between government and the private sector, adding that provision of sports infrastructure in sufficient quantity and quality will increase access for young athletes.
He said there should be a strong support system for athletes; which include access to quality coaching, sports medicine, and professional guidance.
Anambra State Commissioner of Police, Aderemi Adeoye, was given an award of recognition for his contributions to sports development in the state through creating a safe environment for sports to thrive.
Chairman of Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), Enugu Depot, Mr Chinedu Anyaso, received an award for sponsoring the Odiofele Football competition in his community, Ekwulummiri for years.
The Anambra Cricket Association; under the chairmanship of Chuma Anosike was honoured with Most Grassroots Oriented Sports Association award for planting the game in many secondary schools in the state
Acting Registrar of the Federal Polytechnic Oko, Obini Onuchukwu, was installed as patron of the association.
