*Vision targets youth engagement, grassroots coaching, and international exposure
All Progressives Congress (APC) aspirant for Esan South East Constituency, Dr. Ernest Iyere Ahamioje, has outlined an ambitious plan to develop the sports economy of Esan South East LGA into a nationally recognized and globally connected hub for youth talent.
Speaking to sports correspondents in Benin City, Dr. Ahamioje said the initiative is a core pillar of his Vision 2026 Agenda for the positive and productive engagement of youths across the 10 wards of the constituency.
“My goal is to make Esan South East sports one of the best in the country,” he stated.
“Sport is big business and a universal unifier. Under my watch, every talented young person will have the opportunity to nurture and develop their talent to greater heights.”
Key components of the plan include Grassroots Coaches Development, which, immediately after the primaries, Dr. Ahamioje said he will travel to Lagos to seek the support of His Excellency, Comrade Phillip Shuaibu, the former Deputy Governor of Edo State and currently, the Director General of the Nigeria Institute of Sports (NIS) for the training and capacity building of grassroots’ coaches across all 10 wards.
Also, there will be International Scouting Partnerships. Following discussions with Comrade Shuaibu, he plans to engage foreign scouts and agents in Europe and America to create direct pathways for recruiting young talents from Esan South East communities.
His third vision has to do with World-Class Sports Facilities. With support from the state government and private partners, he intends to establish modern sports facilities in each ward, built to global best practices.
The fourth is about Global Exposure and Ambassadors. Dr. Ahamioje revealed he is in discussions with Nigerian sports superstars especially Victor Osimhen to serve as Esan South East Sports Ambassadors, providing mentorship and opening doors for international exposure.
“I will give our talented youths the much-needed international and professional exposure that brings huge financial benefits to their families, communities, and the local government area,” he said.
Dr. Ahamioje emphasized that sports would be used as a tool for poverty alleviation at the grassroots, to engage youths meaningfully and steer them away from unproductive and destructive social vices.
