As the nation prepares for the 19th national sports festival being hosted by the federal ministry of sports in the federal capital territory (FCT), Abuja, beginning from December 6, some Edo athletes and coaches have called for government urgent attention,with a view to addressing their plight in the area of preparation for the games.
A visit to the various sporting camps,weekend, the situation seemed to be the same as those who summoned courage to speak described the level of preparation for the games as poor and unhealthy. They however expressed optimism that they would not be deterred by the present condition of things if government is made to know the truth and respond quickly.
A popular kickboxer and gold medal hopeful, Blessing Abisoye said preparation for the national sports festival has never been so poor in Edo like it is now. She said the reconstruction work on the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium by the state Government they believed is part of the reasons facilities required are not on ground. She however appealed to the state Governor Mr Godwin Obaseki to release Philip to them as he did to Bendel Insurance. "
There is need for government to boost athletes morale now because the time is very short and athletes have been preparing on their own without being camped. Money is key motivational factor and that is what we need at this stage and we are going to do Edo proud.
"Apart from the normal camp allowances and bonuses, let government give us some money to cover our preparation expenses because we have been spending to prepare ourselves. For things to work, I think the deputy Governor comrade Shaibu is the answer". She emphasized.
According to Observer sports, coach who did not want his name in print said that their athletes are already on their neck as they expect camp allowances in addition to other bonuses." As a matter of fact,we told the athletes that camping began since November 22nd and believe their allowances have started counting since. We have been in self camping and resorted to use of improvised facilities to avoid fire brigade approach. " He explained.
Other camps visited include Taekwondo,Gymnastics,weightlifting and powerlifting.
Others include special table tennis and cycling where coaches and athletes expressed readiness to represent the state with promises to reward the state Governor for his administration's ongoing sports infrastructure development with medals.
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