Prominent sports administrators, journalists, and industry stakeholders in Nigeria have commended Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, for appointing Frank Areguame Ilaboya as Special Adviser on Grassroots Sports Mobilisation. This appointment has been hailed as a well-deserved recognition of Ilaboya's years of experience in sports journalism and football administration. Ilaboya, a former chairman of the Edo State Football Association, is expected to leverage his expertise to drive grassroots sports development in the state.
Nasir Danladi Bako, former Director-General of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), was among the first to congratulate Ilaboya on his appointment. Bako described the appointment as well-deserved, citing Ilaboya's long-standing commitment to sports development. He noted that Ilaboya's experience as a sports writer and his tenure as chairman of the Edo State Football Association made him an ideal candidate for the role. Bako expressed confidence that Ilaboya would contribute meaningfully to sports development in Edo State and Nigeria.
George Aluo, immediate past chairman of the Nigeria National League (NNL), also welcomed Ilaboya's appointment, describing it as a recognition of his contributions to sports development. Aluo noted that the appointment reflected Ilaboya's place in the sports sector, not only in Edo State but across the country. This endorsement highlights the expectations that Ilaboya will use his experience to strengthen grassroots mobilisation and support the development of sporting talent in Edo State.
The President of the Guild of Sports Editors, Tony Ubani, expressed delight at Ilaboya's appointment, describing it as an honour to members of the sports journalism community. Ubani noted that many more good things are expected for the community, indicating a positive outlook for sports development in the state. Ade Ojeikere, a veteran sports journalist, also congratulated Ilaboya and thanked Governor Okpebholo for what he described as a fitting appointment.
Taye Ige, Chief Executive Officer of Hotspot International, praised Governor Okpebholo for selecting Ilaboya for the role, saying the decision demonstrated foresight. Ige described the appointment as a well-thought-out decision, noting that Ilaboya was the right person for the job. This endorsement further underscores the confidence in Ilaboya's ability to drive grassroots sports development in Edo State.
The appointment has generated optimism that Ilaboya will prioritise growth and development in carrying out his responsibilities. Stakeholders expect him to focus on mobilising talent and strengthening sports at the grassroots level. With his experience and expertise, Ilaboya is well-positioned to make a meaningful impact in the state's sports sector. His task will be to ensure that grassroots sports programmes are effectively implemented and that the state's sporting talent is harnessed.
The endorsements from prominent figures in the sports sector have highlighted the expectations surrounding Ilaboya's appointment. Key points from the reactions include: Ilaboya's appointment is a recognition of his contributions to sports development; he is well-positioned to drive grassroots sports mobilisation; and his experience in sports journalism and football administration makes him an ideal candidate for the role. With these endorsements, Ilaboya is set to play a crucial role in shaping the future of sports in Edo State.
Key points
- Ilaboya's appointment as Special Adviser on Grassroots Sports Mobilisation has been hailed by prominent sports administrators and journalists.
- The appointment is seen as a recognition of Ilaboya's contributions to sports development in Edo State and Nigeria.
- Ilaboya is expected to leverage his expertise to drive grassroots sports development and mobilisation in Edo State.
