Enugu State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Hon. Barrister Lloyd Ikechukwu Ekweremadu, has tasked the newly inaugurated Enugu State Arm-Wrestling Association Board to actively seek funds and resources to develop the sport in the state.
Speaking during the inauguration ceremony held at his office, Commissioner Ekweremadu commended the board members for their hard work, integrity, and selection to lead the association.
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He acknowledged that arm-wrestling is a new sport in Enugu State and emphasized that the board would be charting a fresh path for its development.
The Commissioner assured the board of the Ministry’s support and commitment to providing an enabling environment for them to develop and produce champions.
“There is a new wave in the Ministry. Sports Association Boards have become proactive in seeking funds and resources.
Gone are the days when the government solely funded sports associations. Go out, seek funds and resources—sports is private sector-driven worldwide,” Ekweremadu stated.
He reiterated that while the government would provide moral backing and an enabling environment, the board members must work diligently to establish a strong foundation for the sport in the state.
“You have a lot of work to do, and I know you will succeed. Your nomination as members of this association proves that you have the integrity and passion to develop the sport.
You are pioneers of a brand-new sport and will be charting a new path for arm-wrestling in Enugu State. Work with the Ministry to raise champions from our young, strong, and talented youths,” he added.
In his acceptance speech on behalf of the newly inaugurated board, the Chairman, Dr. BGC Agu, expressed gratitude to the Commissioner for the opportunity to serve. He assured that the board would work hard and collaborate with the Ministry to produce champions, pledging that they would not disappoint.
Delivering a goodwill message, the Director of Coaching in the Ministry and a board member, Mr. Ephraim Ochomma, urged the association to focus on scouting and nurturing athletes who would represent the state in national and international competitions.
Similarly, in his vote of thanks, the Coach of the Arm-Wrestling Association, Mr. Bernard Chinweze, emphasized that the association already has athletes capable of winning medals for the state. He further assured that arm-wrestling athletes representing Enugu in a championship next month would make the state proud.
