In a strategic move to expand the scope of the sporting activities of Edo State Sports Commission and to begin work in the year 2026 on a sound footing with a clear policy direction, Executive Chairman Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele with his management team has rolled out a development programme for the year.
The Edo Sports Commission boss unveiled the 2026 programme of activities during the General Staff meeting convened for appraisal and feedback . The interactive meeting with coaches ,athletes and administrators in the various sports association held at the VIP Lounge of the Samuel Ogbemudia stadium today.
Unveiling the development programme for the year 2026, Sports Commission boss announced some new events lined up for March, which include the Okpebholo Athletes’ Meet, the National Para Games, and various racket games and ball competitions spread across before the state sports festival scheduled tentatively for September, adding that deliberate initiatives are being designed to boost female participation in sports through targeted programmes and competitive platforms.
Hon. Enabulele, said the appraisal and feedback meeting was part of deliberate efforts to reset the working standards to enforce professionalism, and drive improved performance across all sports.
According to him, the Commission has introduced strict performance-driven policies for both coaches and athletes, stressing that the era of excuses is over. He emphasized that quality work, discipline, and measurable results will now define advancement within the sports system with rewards system in place.
“We are determined to raise the bar. Coaches and athletes must embrace hard work, professionalism and accountability. Edo State must compete with purpose and excellence,” Enabulele stated.
He further disclosed that the Commission is rolling out structured sports and capacity-building programmes, including specialized training and programmes for coaches ,aimed at aligning them with modern coaching techniques and global best practices.
On discipline and teamwork, Enabulele charged coaches to lead by example, insisting on spontaneous cooperation among coaches and and administrators, pointing out that success is difficult to achieve in a toxic work environment. He warned coaches, particularly the assistants who do not cooperate with their head coaches to desist from such act to ensure unity of purpose and optimal results.
“Indiscipline will not be tolerated. Coaches must show leadership and work as a team. Success is collective, and everyone must understand their role in achieving it,” he warned.
On the major competitions ahead, Enabulele disclosed that Edo State is intensifying preparations for the Niger Delta Games which the state will host in February. He revealed that the Commission has received a clear mandate from the Executive Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, to not only host successfully but also strive to win the games
“The Niger Delta Games is around the corner. We are hosting and competing in 16 sports, and we have been mandated by His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo to win. All hands must be on deck,” he declared just as he charged the coaches and athletes to get prepared for National Sports Festival in Enugu state later in the year among other national events.
On accountability, Enabulele explained that the Commission will strengthen its appraisal process using Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to objectively assess coaches, athletes, and sports administrators.
“Performance must be measurable. We are consolidating on our appraisal system through KPIs to ensure transparency, accountability and continuous improvement,” he said.
He promised to address athletes’ welfare and funding, just as he reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to motivating athletes through increased funding, better facilities, and a more supportive training environment.
Enabulele also encouraged athletes to take ownership of their careers by setting personal goals and prioritizing individual performance.
He commended the various sports associations that have invested in grassroots developmental programmes as well as those that were outstanding at the Ogun National Sports Festival. He specifically commended Kickboxing head coach John Osamwonyi and the athletes as well as gymnastics among others who made the state proud during the Ogun games.
