Francis Onoiribholo The Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, has warmly received the winners of the Edo State Football League—BJ Foundation FC and Ancient Intelligent FC—during a courtesy visit to his office in Benin City. The teams, accompanied by the Chairman of the Edo State Football Association, Mr. Erhunmwunse Newton Fred, presented their qualifications for the upcoming nationwide playoffs. In his response, Hon. Enabulele, through his Media Officer, Edoko Wilson Edoko, reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to grassroots sports development across the state. “As you are all aware, the mandate of Governor Monday Okpebholo is to identify, nurture, and galvanize grassroots talent across Edo State,” Enabulele said. He further stressed the importance of increased investment from private individuals and corporate organizations in advancing sports development, noting that such efforts would complement the state government’s initiatives. Enabulele expressed particular excitement about the role of the tournament in strengthening the Bendel Insurance feeder team, which will serve as a pathway for emerging talents to transition to the main team as preparations for the NPFL26 season intensify. Tournament highlights included Purpose Ayemoyie emerging as top scorer with 7 goals. Adebayo Samson of BJ Foundation Academy was named Best Goalkeeper, while Nyitwell Austin, also from BJ Foundation Academy, was awarded Best Player of the Tournament. Philip Anthony of Ancient Intelligent FC received the Man of the Match award. In a separate event, the Edo State Sports Commission hosted the leadership of the Nigerian Students and Youth Association (NISAYA), South-South Zone, led by Zonal Coordinator Mr. David Ekwe. The delegation discussed potential collaborations aimed at youth empowerment through sports. Mr. Ekwe unveiled plans to organize an Under-19 Football Tournament targeting secondary schools and tertiary institutions in the region, with the goal of discovering and nurturing new talents. Hon. Enabulele lauded NISAYA’s proactive engagement with youths and reiterated his dedication to grassroots sports development. “Under the leadership of His Excellency, Governor Monday Okpebholo, we are committed to sports development by partnering with dedicated individuals and organizations to empower our youth,” he stated. He emphasized that sports serve as a platform for talent discovery, character building, and leadership development, while also helping to keep young people engaged and away from social vices. In another highlight, the Edo Esports Association paid a courtesy visit to Hon. Enabulele to express appreciation for his support of Bolade Bezi, who recently set a Guinness World Record by marathon-playing the video game God of War for 57 hours, 10 minutes, and 5 seconds. Additionally, the Edo State female Rugby team, winners of the 5th edition of the Racing 10s Rugby Tournament held in Lagos, visited the Commission to present their trophy. The team was led by Secretary Obaraye Osakpamwan and Head Coach Ntiense Williams, alongside other coaches including Emeka Matthew, Adebimpe Adediji, and Jeremiah Igbunme.