The economic storm that threatened the continuation of the ongoing National Sports Festival tagged ‘Edo 2020’ seemed to be over as the Chairman Local Organising Committee of the games, and Deputy Governor of Edo state Rt Hon comrade Philip Shaibu has confirmed receipt of Federal Government’s stronger commitment, saying that the games continue.
The deputy Governor in an interview with journalists affirmed the statement signed by Mr. Musa Ebomhiana, Project manager, Media and Communications, Edo 2020 Games which laid to rest the issues surrounding the continuation and otherwise of the games which is in its day six.
” We are happy that there is a stronger commitment by the Federal government. The games continue”.
The Statement reads:
“At the end of the meeting presided over by the Chairman, Deputy Governor Edo state, Rt Hon Comrade Philip Shaibu, the LOC decided that the games have to continue. The LOC agreed that the presidential intervention is a very strong and direct commitment which we must all respect, honour and take seriously.” We strongly believe and respect commitments from the presidency. We take them by their words. It is a strong message to us that they are strongly committed to redeeming their pledge to support us for the losses suffered arising from the three postponements of the games.” The LOC appreciates President Muhammadu Buhari, Vice President Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, the secretary to the Government of the Federation Boss Mustapha, the Chief of staff to the president Prof. Ibrahim Agboola Gambari and indeed the Governor of Edo State Mr Godwin Obaseki for his high level of commitment to work with the federal government for the success of the festival, Edo 2020.”
The LOC wished the athletes and officials from across the 35 States and the FCT a memorable stay in Edo as the games last.
The LOC media committee had on Wednesday night issued a statement, announcing the inability of the Edo Government to continue with the games if funds are not provided by the Federal government
Recall that Edo state government had before the commencement of the games on April second, requested for the Federal government financial backing to enable it to host the rest of the nation successfully, given the harsh economic effect of the global Covid-19 pandemic which forced the postponement of the games from 2020 to 2021.
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