Timothy Omobude 
The Edo State Sports Commission, ESSC, has charged the newly inaugurated board of the Mixed Martial Arts Association to intensify efforts to secure sponsorships, mobilise financial support and build strategic partnerships to strengthen the state’s athletes ahead of the 23rd National Sports Festival in Enugu.
ESSC gave the charge during the inauguration of the association’s board, stressing that collective responsibility, commitment and effective collaboration would be critical to the growth of mixed martial arts in Edo State.
The Commission Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Patricia Agharese Efe Amenze, urged board members to demonstrate their commitment by contributing financially and attracting corporate sponsors to support competitions, training programmes and other developmental initiatives.
According to Edoko Wilson Edoko, S.A media to the commission chairman Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele ; Sports development is capital-intensive. Therefore, I call on board members to work closely with athletes, coaches and association officials to ensure the successful implementation of planned activities in line with Governor Monday Okpebholo’s sports development agenda.
“With the 23rd National Sports Festival approaching, I am optimistic that Edo State can win at least 15 gold medals in mixed martial arts, provided there is adequate preparation and the necessary support from the board.
Members were further urged to work together as a united family, noting that cooperation among board members, athletes and coaches would be essential to achieving the association’s objectives and positioning Edo State for success at national competitions.
Responding on behalf of the association, its chairman, Barr. Douglas Ogbankwa, described his appointment and those of other board members as a privilege and an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to sports development in the state.
He assured the Commission’s leadership that the board would work diligently to justify the confidence reposed on her members, pledging to pursue initiatives that would promote the growth of mixed martial arts and improve the performance of Edo athletes.
