Nigeria School Sports Federation (NSSF) has endorsed the forthcoming maiden Oyo SWAN/Jerona International Sports U -13 Sport festival.
The President, NSSF Mrs Olabisi Joseph after been briefed by the Chairman, Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, (SWAN) Oyo State chapter, Mr Niyi Alebiosu, did not only commend the Association on the initiative but also endorsed the competition.
NSSF President however advised that the students of public schools should be allowed to participate in future editions of the competition.
“This is a very laudable idea and a good move by your Association to contribute to the development of sports at the grassroot. But you should have involved all schools, not only private schools. We have budding and hidden talents in public schools too. I will advise your Association to consider students of public schools in future editions of the competition.” Joseph said.
Joseph, who was recently elected the 4th Vice President, Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), promised to donate a prize for the Most Outstanding Athlete of the Competition as morale booster to the competitors.
She also promised to grace the closing ceremony of the competition in Ibadan.
The Chairman of the Competition’s Organizing Committee, Mr Adewale Tijani, in his response, expressed appreciation to the NSSF boss for her support to the organisers of the sports fiesta.
Mr Tijani assured the NSSF President that no stone will be left unturned at ensuring that the maiden edition of the sports fiesta is hitch free.
“We are very grateful to you and the NSSF for your support. Your decision to provide a prize for the Most Outstanding Athlete of the Competition long way in encouraging the athletes and would be sponsors. I want to assure you that all neccessary arrangements are being put in place to ensure a hitchfree festival”, Tijani said.
He further disclosed that some schools have indicated interests in participating in the festival, while calling for more supports from corporate bodies and other stakeholders.
The competition, which is strictly for kids under the age of 13 and Junior Secondary School pupils of private schools in Ibadan will feature football and athletics.
The competition is geared at providing platform for corporate bodies to exercise their corporate social responsibilities.
The competition is scheduled to hold between February 4 and February 23 2023, at the University of Ibadan Sports Complex and the Lekan Salami stadium Adamasingba Ibadan.
