Top Edo official, Mrs. Sabina Chikere calls for more support towards sports, as she celebrates the new year

By Oluwatobiloba Zeal-Adepetu Kumoye 

  

  

  

Executive Director of Sports Development and Operations, Edo State Sports Commission (ESSC), Mrs. Sabina Chikere, declared 2026 as the year of further progress for sport in Edo state.

She made this public in an exclusive interview with FIRST ZEALMEDIACAST BLOG's Oluwatobiloba Zeal-Adepetu Kumoye, stating that she is “happy to see another year” and eager to turn that joy into opportunities that helps every athlete, coach and sporting community across Edo.

“This is more than a change of calendar; it is a fresh court on which we will play harder. 2026 will be a year of expanded programmes, deeper talent identification, and stronger partnerships.

We are ready to do more for Edo State — to widen the pipeline for our young athletes, to professionalise coaching, and to ensure opportunities reach even the smallest local government areas.” 

Mrs. Chikere went on to thank Edo’s sportsmen and sportswomen for their unfaltering commitment to projecting the state in the best possible light.

“Your discipline, your sacrifices, and your victories, whether at regional games or on national platforms have made Edo proud. You are our ambassadors,” she said.

She urged athletes and coaches to harness the momentum of the New Year to lift performance, build character and mentor the next generation.

Mrs. Chikere also had some nice and delightful words for Comrade Phillips Shaibu, Director General of the National Institute of Sports, a leader she described as visionary with selfless dedication to the advancement of sport in Edo State and Nigeria.

“Comrade Shaibu’s example of servant leadership and his relentless advocacy for sports development have been invaluable,” she noted.

She hailed his role in nurturing institutional capacity, strengthening training frameworks, and amplifying the voice of Nigerian sport.

“His dedication inspires us to think bigger, plan smarter and act with courage,” she stressed.

Mrs. Chikere was also full of praise for Governor Monday Okpebholo, whom she described as “the number one sportsman” of Edo State.

She thanked the governor for his unwavering love for sports, from sustained funding to the backing of grassroots infrastructure projects.

“Under Governor Okpebholo’s leadership, sport is no longer an afterthought but a strategic instrument for youth development, health, and community pride. We are grateful to have a governor who understands sports,” she expressed.

Mrs. Sabina Chikere called on all stakeholders to join hands with the Edo State Sports Commission, led by Honourable Enabulele, adding that only then will sports in the state be able to flourish.