…. Chairman Akeju calls for more participation to unearth talents.
The Ekiti State Badminton Association has called for increased participation in the sport to discover and nurture young talent and commended the state government for its unwavering support in promoting badminton in the state
The Chairman of the association, Mr. Opeyemi Akeju, made the call during the conclusion of the association’s end-of-year under-15 tournament held in Ado Ekiti on Saturday.
Mr. Akeju explained that the just concluded under-15 badminton tournament in the state would help promote the sport and unearth young talent in Ekiti State, while advocating regular tournaments and training of Coaches.
“I believe this tournament will boost badminton development and encourage young athletes to take up the sport and I want to urge our youths to look into this direction and develop their skills and passion for badminton, “Mr Akeju said.
He also applauded Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s commitment towards creating a conducive environment for sports to thrive, by constructing an indoor sports complex, renovation of the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium, implementation of structured sports programmes and improved welfare packages for athletes and officials.
“The support we have received from the government has been phenomenal. It has encouraged young players to participate in the sport and given them the opportunity to showcase their talents, “he said.
The Chairman of the Association noted that the development would help encourage young players from across the state to participate in Badminton and other sporting events and give them the opportunity to showcase their talents.
“This government is aware of the fact that sport is a key priority in developing youth and its importance and it has resolved to continue to support initiatives that promote the growth and development of young people in the state., “Akeju remarked.
The Badminton Association Chairman said that promoting badminton, aligned with one of the Six pillars agenda of the present government, Youth Development and Job Creation
Commenting on the tournament, the Patron of the Assiciation, Hon AVM Ojuawo (rtd) stressed the role of sports in Youth development and human capital growth and assured the association will keep seeking ways to add value, and called on the young and not so young to take advantage of the opportunities available
Other dignitaries who graced the occasion said the tournament was a huge success and thanked the members of the Association as well as other stakeholders.
They urged government to continue supporting sports development in the state, saying it is a key factor in the growth and development of young people. and promised to continue to work with the government and relevant stakeholders to promote badminton and other sports in the state.
According to the Association, the end of the year under-15 tournament which featured young players from across the state, aimed to promote badminton and identify talented players for future competitions. as participants and winners went home with cash gifts and various categories of awards
