Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, has emphasized the importance of integrating sports into education, stating that education is incomplete without it.
Represented by Mr. Patrick Umedum, the Director of Sports Development Commission, Governor Soludo shared his perspective during the closing ceremony of the Under-12 Sports Competition in Awka.
He noted that his administration had prioritized sports in schools to foster holistic development among students.
The event, organized by the State Universal Basic Education Board (ASUBEB) in collaboration with the Universal Basic Education Board (UBEC), Abuja, highlighted the state’s commitment to nurturing young athletes. Soludo praised the initiative, noting that “catching them young” could help cultivate future champions who may represent Anambra in national and international sports.
Dr. Vera Nwadinobi, Executive Chairman of ASUBEB, applauded the governor’s support, particularly his commitment to fulfilling counterpart funding for UBE grants from 2019, 2020, and 2022, which made the competition possible. She underscored the value of sports in fostering intellectual, emotional, social, and physical growth, urging students to value teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship over mere victory.
“Investing in programs that promote holistic development is our priority,” Nwadinobi said, encouraging sports in schools as a foundation for building a brighter future.
The competition featured participants from the six educational zones of Anambra State: Aguata, Awka, Ogidi, Nnewi, Onitsha, and Otuocha, with winners awarded medals.
