The Imo State Ministry of Sports has announced plans to collaborate with the Ministry of Education in reviving the once-thriving All Secondary Schools Games, as part of a long-term strategy to discover and nurture young talents for future National Youth Games (NYG) and the National Sports Festival (NSF).
The State Commissioner for Sports, Hon. Obinna Evaristus Onyeocha, disclosed this during an interactive session with members of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Imo State Chapter, held at the State Secretariat on Friday, September 12.
Onyeocha, who commended Imo SWAN for their consistent support during the just-concluded 9th National Youth Games in Asaba, Delta State, emphasized that grassroots sports development, particularly at the secondary school level, holds the key to producing the next generation of champions for Imo and Nigeria.
“Going forward, the Ministry of Sports will be working hand in hand with the Ministry of Education to ensure the rebirth of the Secondary School Games. That is where we can spot athletes between the ages of 12 and 15 and begin to groom them early for the National Youth Games and ultimately the National Sports Festival. If we get this right, Imo will not only improve on what we achieved in Asaba but will dominate future competitions,” Onyeocha said.
Team Imo won three gold, eight silver, and six bronze medals at the Asaba Games, with the Commissioner particularly highlighting the historic gold medal in Shooting — a sport the state entered for the first time. He assured that discussions are ongoing with Governor Hope Uzodimma on establishing a Shooting Range in the state to consolidate the breakthrough.
While acknowledging the challenges of limited facilities and late preparations, Onyeocha stressed that early camping and talent discovery through school sports would provide a sustainable pathway to future success. He also praised the presence and encouragement of SWAN members in Asaba, describing their role as a partnership that boosted the athletes’ morale.
Looking ahead, the Commissioner expressed optimism that with renewed commitment to grassroots sports and the proposed collaboration with the Education Ministry, Imo will surpass its current achievements at the 2026 National Sports Festival in Enugu.
