Enabulele flags off 'Discovering Tomorrow’s Stars' talent hunt in Benin

Enabulele flags off 'Discovering Tomorrow’s Stars' talent hunt in Benin

The Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, on Thursday officially declared open the 2026 “Discovering Tomorrow’s Stars” Grassroots Talent Hunt Programme at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, reaffirming the state government’s commitment to grassroots sports development.

In a statement issued by his Media Aide, Edoko Wilson Edoko, Enabulele described the initiative as a strategic investment in the future of Edo sports and youth development, stressing that the programme goes beyond competition and medals.

Speaking during the opening ceremony, Enabulele said the initiative was designed to identify hidden talents in schools and communities across the state and provide young athletes with opportunities to develop their abilities and pursue greatness through sports.

He noted that the programme aligns with the vision of Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, particularly the administration’s “Catch Them Young” policy under the SHINE Agenda.

“Today is not just about sports. It is about hope, preparation, and the development of our minds for greater opportunities ahead,” Enabulele said.

The Sports Commission boss revealed that no fewer than 20 schools and over 270 young athletes are participating in the competition, which features Athletics, Judo, Karate, Kung Fu, Wrestling, Taekwondo, Boxing, and Kickboxing.

He encouraged the young participants to remain disciplined, determined, and focused, adding that many world champions and Olympians began their journeys from grassroots competitions similar to the Edo initiative.

Enabulele also commended coaches, teachers, parents, technical officials, and members of the organizing committee for their dedication towards the success of the programme.

Special recognition was given to the Executive Director of Sports Development and Operations, Mrs. Sabina Chikere, the Permanent Secretary, and other members of the planning committee for their efforts in organizing the event.

During visits to various competition centres, Enabulele witnessed several contests including Judo, Wrestling, and Boxing events.

In the male Judo category, Miracle Osarobo won gold, while Prosper Osadebamwan secured silver. Destiny Mike and Emmanuel Omofowan claimed bronze medals.

In the female category, Grace Vincent emerged with gold, Dumebi Obi won silver, while Gift Opuba and Emmannella Lawrence settled for bronze medals.

In Boxing, Osawese Eguabor of Great Oxford Group of Schools Academy defeated Osawanamen Edo of St. Rita Comprehensive Nursery and Primary School in the female category.

In the male category, Osakpolor Edo of St. Rita Comprehensive Nursery and Primary School defeated Efosa Eredirenean of Supreme Demonstration Academy School.

Other athletes who featured prominently during the competition included Osaretin of Betty Primary School, Iwwinosa of Edokpolor Grammar School Junior, Osakpolor of Asoro Secondary School, Uyi of World of Faith Secondary School, Taye of Oraseki Primary School, and Purity of Okhokhugbo Comprehensive Secondary School.

Dignitaries present at the event included the Chairman of the Senior Secondary Education Board, Dr. Rita Otibho Erewele, and the Chairman of the Edo State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Hon. Omozane Ebanehita Sonia.