The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to promoting sports and empowering young athletes in the territory. Wike made this pledge in a statement released by the FCT Sports Department on Tuesday in Abuja, where he announced plans to host a reception in honour of FCT athletes who excelled at recent national sporting events.
The event, scheduled to take place on Thursday, will recognize athletes who represented the FCT at the 2022 National Sports Festival and the 7th and 8th National Youth Games. The minister emphasized that the reception is a way to appreciate their dedication and sacrifices, which have brought glory to the FCT.
Speaking on the importance of sports development, Wike said his administration is focused on creating an enabling environment for sports to thrive in the FCT.
“We are committed to the development of sports in the FCT, and we will continue to create the enabling environment for sports to thrive. This is in line with President Bola Tinubu’s vision to engage youths, help them discover their potential, and empower them to be better,” he stated.
Honouring Patriotism and Sacrifice
According to Wike, the athletes have demonstrated patriotism, determination, and resilience, which deserve to be recognized and celebrated. He stressed that their achievements reflect the spirit of unity and hard work, which his administration aims to foster through sports.
The minister commended the athletes for their efforts in representing the FCT at various competitions, noting that their success stories inspire younger generations to pursue excellence in sports.
Youth Engagement and Empowerment
Wike reiterated that promoting sports is a crucial part of his administration’s strategy to engage and empower youths in the FCT. He highlighted that sports can serve as a tool to channel the energy of young people into productive ventures, reduce social vices, and promote unity.
“Engaging youths in sports is not just about winning medals. It’s about giving them a platform to discover their talents and providing opportunities for them to achieve greatness,” Wike added.
Sports Development as a Priority
The minister also emphasized the need to invest in sports infrastructure and provide necessary support for athletes to excel in national and international competitions. He assured residents of the FCT that his administration will continue to prioritize sports development as a means of fostering youth engagement, promoting health, and boosting the image of the territory.
The upcoming reception is expected to serve as a morale booster for the athletes, encouraging them to strive for greater success in future sporting events.
