By HeapNews
Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to grassroots sports development, emphasizing the importance of nurturing young talent early.
The Governor made this pledge during a celebratory presentation of the overall trophy and medals won by Team Ondo at the inaugural Basic Education School Sports (BESS) Competition held in Abuja.
Team Ondo emerged champions among 36 states and the FCT, amassing a total of 31 medals, nine gold, 15 silver, and seven bronze. The victorious team was presented by the Commissioner for Education, Science, and Technology, Mr. Laolu Akindolire, at a ceremony held at the Government House Grounds.
Governor Aiyedatiwa praised the pupils as “Lucky boys and girls,” stating, “You have written your names in gold and made Ondo State proud by clinching the maiden BESS Competition trophy. Your hard work, discipline, and sportsmanship are exemplary.”
Acknowledging the role of sports in holistic child development, the Governor urged educators to balance academic and physical education. “Sporting activities are as vital as academics in shaping a child’s future. We will continue to invest in both cognitive and psychomotor growth,” he said.
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The Governor assured the young athletes and their trainers that their efforts would not go unappreciated. “At the right time, we will ensure this remarkable achievement is rewarded appropriately,” he promised.
Speaking at the event, Commissioner Akindolire credited the team’s success to the state’s supportive environment. “This victory is a testament to the Governor’s dedication to all-round education development,” he said.
Mr. Victor Olabimtan, Chairman of the Ondo State Universal Basic Education Board (ODSUBEB), highlighted the team’s earlier triumph at the South-West regional competition in Ado-Ekiti. He proudly noted that none of the Ondo athletes faced disqualification for age discrepancies, unlike many other states. “This victory is authentic and well-deserved, thanks to the Governor’s support and timely payment of matching grants to access funds,” Olabimtan added.