By Silvernews
Efforts to transform Imo State into a national sporting hub received a boost over the weekend as the Commissioner for Sports, Hon. Obinna Onyeocha, led a high-powered delegation alongside the Eze-elect of Odun’Izuoha, Amuzi Autonomous Community in Ahiazu Mbaise Local Government Area, Mr. Vitalis Chikere, to meet with the Director-General of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), Philip Shaibu.
The delegation paid a courtesy visit to Shaibu, a former Deputy Governor of Edo State, at his residence in Benin City. Discussions focused on establishing a world-class sports facility in Imo State and attracting a NIS structure to enhance technical development, coaching education, and grassroots programmes.
Accompanying Onyeocha and Chikere was Comrade Kennedy Onwunali, Aboh Mbaise Local Government Football Administrator and Chief Executive Officer of Silvernews Communication.
Sources disclosed that the engagement followed earlier strategic discussions between Chikere and Hon. Onyeocha, which explored ways to strengthen sports infrastructure, institutional partnerships, and coaching support in the state.
Speaking during the meeting, Onyeocha described the initiative as forward-looking and transformative, noting that the development of modern facilities, akin to those in Edo State, would significantly enhance athlete preparation and talent identification.
Chikere explained that the project stems from preliminary engagements with the Commissioner and aims to restore Imo State’s prominence in Nigerian sports.
He added that hosting a NIS facility would not only advance sports development but also stimulate related economic activities in the state.
The discussions come as Team Imo continues to make waves at the ongoing 2nd Niger Delta Games, with athletes excelling across football, athletics, and para-sports disciplines.
Onyeocha emphasized that the proposed world-class facility would serve as a legacy for upcoming athletes and strengthen the state’s competitive edge in national and regional tournaments.
Onwunali commended the initiative, highlighting that improved infrastructure and structured technical support would redefine grassroots football and other sporting disciplines across Imo.
Observers believe that if the plan materialises, Imo State could soon reclaim its position as a leading centre for sports excellence in Nigeria, backed by modern facilities, technical expertise, and institutional support from the NIS
