By Roland Ike
The Ebonyi State Government’ says it will recall athletes from the State poached by other states of the federation for various sporting competitions.
Commissioner for Youth Development and Sports, Richard Idike, said this on Thursday while speaking with newsmen on plans to recognise and reward deserving local athletes.
Idike said that most of the athletes involved competing for other states had been contacted adding that government’s plans to bring them back to represent the state, were made known to them.
“Most of them said they were not treated well by the state in the past and we have made them know that we are in a new era.
“The state governor is aware of the development and has set machinery in motion to re-integrate these athletes with wonderful welfare packages.
“The governor has pledged to promote the image of the state through sports which necessitated for instance, his approval for the formation of a new state football team.
The Commissioner noted that such athletes would henceforth form the core of the state’s representatives to regional and national sporting competitions.
“Ebonyi has proven champions in various sporting events such as wrestling, weightlifting among others but are competing for other states.
“The government is determined to reverse the trend and has pledged to duly recognise and reward these athletes for bringing honours to the state.
He also noted that work is still ongoing at the state’s new olympic stadium as the governor has paid due attention to the project.
“The project is captured in the state’s 2024 budget and would be the hub of sporting excellence in the state and the country.
