Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to sports development as a tool for job creation and wealth generation.
Speaking on Friday during an inspection of the ongoing renovation of Oluyemi Kayode Stadium in Ado-Ekiti, the governor emphasised that sports in the state would no longer be viewed merely as a recreational activity but as a strategic platform for empowering athletes.
Expressing disappointment at the poor conditions under which athletes train, Oyebanji assured them that such challenges would soon be addressed.
He reaffirmed his administration’s determination to upgrade the stadium to international standards, ensuring that Ekiti athletes have the necessary facilities to compete effectively at national and international levels.
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The governor further revealed that his administration had awarded a contract worth over N7 billion for the construction of a state-of-the-art indoor sports hall, which is expected to be completed before the end of his tenure.
He assured the athletes that his government would continue to provide a conducive environment for sports development, including modern facilities and structured training programs to enhance their skills and career prospects.
“I came here this morning to follow up on what we started yesterday and to see the progress at the stadium. When I visited last year, I was dissatisfied with what I saw and promised to revamp sports in Ekiti State.
“One of the pillars of our administration is human capital development, and sports are a key part of that. We will use sports as an avenue to create jobs and wealth. It will no longer be just for recreation; it will be a platform for athletes to earn a living.
“But to achieve this, we must put the right structures in place to help them maximize their potential,” Oyebanji stated.
Olusola Osetoba, Technical Advisor on Sports Development, commended the governor’s vision and proactive approach to repositioning sports as a vehicle for youth empowerment, economic growth, and job creation.
Speaking on behalf of the athletes, Captain of Ekiti United Football Club, Makanjuola Ayodeji, expressed his gratitude to the governor for prioritizing their welfare.
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He noted that since Oyebanji’s administration began, athletes had experienced significant improvements, including salary increments, new uniforms, travel allowances, and bonuses.
