AFCON 2023: Kogi Plans to Honour Super Eagles’ Goalkeeper Ojo Olorunleke, Other Sports Envoys
Kogi State Government says is gearing up to honour its homegrown hero, Super Eagles goalkeeper Ojo Olorunleke, and fellow sports diplomats for their outstanding performance in the recently concluded Africa Cup of Nations in Cote d’Ivoire.
The State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Monday Anyebe Aridaojo, revealed this during a meeting with members of the State’s chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) in Lokoja.
Acknowledging the players’ contributions, despite Nigeria’s loss to Cote d’Ivoire, Anyebe stressed the need to recognize their dedication to national duty, adding that the state government was preparing to extend a warm welcome to Olorunleke and others, pending official approval.
Speaking further, Anyebe affirmed the government’s commitment to sports development and youth empowerment, pledging to introduce innovative measures to elevate sports in the state.
“Plans are underway to revitalize grassroots sports across all 21 Local Government Areas.”
In his remarks, the Chairman of Kogi SWAN, Bishop Aturu, lauded the government’s initiative to honour the athletes and appealed for adequate intervention in infrastructural improvements in sports facilities, enumerating the importance of reviving grassroots sports to deter social vices and enhance talent development.
He equally stressed the urgent need to refurbish the Confluence Stadium in Lokoja, pledging SWAN’s full support to the ministry’s endeavours to restore Kogi State’s sporting glory.
