Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has inaugurated five sports courts for Abula, beach volleyball, handball, basketball and volleyball at the Ondo State Sports Complex, Akure.

Mr Aiyedatiwa, represented by his special adviser on union matters, Bola Taiwo, at the inauguration on Saturday, described the project as a significant development that would be extended across the sporting zones of the state.

The governor noted that the project had been awarded some time ago but suffered delays before the appointment of the current chairman of the Ondo State Sports Council, Oladimeji Abimbola.

“This project is part of efforts by the state government to improve sporting facilities, promote youth engagement and create a conducive environment for athletes to develop their talents.

“I am happy with the work Abimbola has been doing since his appointment as a professional to lead the council. It has helped to accelerate work at the complex.

“Abimbola also invited contractors back to site shortly after assuming office, which has resulted in visible improvements within a short period.

“This is just the beginning. Within a short period, you will see a lot of things happening here.

“We learnt that most of these athletes are not full staff and have not been given employment. We will look at what we can do to employ them so that we can have more goals,” he said.

Mr Aiyedatiwa said his administration was committed to the development of the state, adding that the government remained determined to improve sporting facilities.

Also, Jide Oguntodu, chairman of the State House of Assembly Committee on Sports, commended Mr Aiyedatiwa for his commitment to sports development and youth welfare.

Mr Oguntodu, who said he had chaired the committee for over three years, described the newly inaugurated facilities as evidence of the government’s commitment to engaging young people productively.

He said the state government was working to ensure that the sports complex had the facilities required to compete with those of other states in sporting activities.

“As a son of the soil, I was born here and participated in some sporting activities while in secondary school.

“What I am seeing here is beautiful, and I assure you that if the governor has done this, he will do more,” he said.

Earlier, Mr Abimbola said he had spent 16 years at the complex building his coaching career, hence his familiarity with the challenges facing the Sports Council before his appointment.

According to him, the experience had prepared him to address the challenges and create a conducive environment for athletes to thrive.

“I am ready to correct all the mistakes so that the place can move forward, which will help us have a conducive environment.

“Motivating athletes is very important, that is why the council has begun implementing measures to improve their welfare.

“In sports, when you motivate them, they are going to do better. It is about motivation, and we have started that already. Our athletes are going to enjoy this time around,” he said.

The chairman also said the council would continue to prioritise athletes’ welfare and motivation to improve their performance. 

(NAN)