The Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Desmond Enabulele, has highlighted key reforms and achievements under his leadership, ranging from the restructuring of Bendel Insurance and Edo Queens to grassroots talent development and enhanced government support for athletes across Edo State.
In a statement signed by his Media Officer, Wilson Edoko, Enabulele commended Governor Monday Okpebholo for his impactful and result-oriented commitment to sports growth in the state.
He recalled that upon assuming office on December 18, 2024, his first priority was overhauling Bendel Insurance, which he described as previously being run “like a one-man business.” He affirmed that the team’s ultimate target for the current season is to win the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL).
Player welfare has also been prioritized, with the Commission clearing eight matches’ worth of outstanding bonuses inherited from the previous administration. In addition, air travel has now been introduced for fixtures in northern Nigeria, significantly easing the team’s travel burden.
On grassroots sports, Enabulele reaffirmed the state’s dedication to discovering and nurturing young athletes through secondary school competitions, inter-house sports, structured training programs, and qualified coaching.
To encourage rising stars, he revealed that the Commission has proposed full scholarships for four promising athletes, pending the Governor’s approval. Transportation support has also been provided to ensure easier access to training facilities.
Enabulele concluded by underscoring the Commission’s grassroots-driven model, built on scouting, structured training, scholarships, infrastructure investment, and mentorship. He stressed that this strategy is already yielding results and must be expanded across other sporting disciplines as Edo State works to cement its place as a national leader in sports development.
