By Uzo Ugwunze
Leaders from Anambra’s non-governmental and private sectors have called on residents to support children’s participation in sports to foster holistic development and empowerment.
The appeal was made during the 2026 Interhouse Sports Competition at Merchants of Light School, MoLS, Oba, in Idemili South LGA.
Alumni Liaison Officer for the Old Boys of MoLS Oba, Chief Ako Onugha, stressed the need to revive grassroots and interhouse sports, noting that the sector had been neglected for too long.
In her welcome address, the Principal Mrs. Joyce Uchendu, thanked sponsors, including Igwe Augustine Emelobe of Oba, and described sports as vital to education. She said it provides students a platform to showcase their talents and can serve as a sustainable livelihood, citing Nigerian success stories at home and abroad.
Also, the Zonal Director of Education, PPSSC Ogidi, Mrs. Nkiru Elosiuba, urged increased sponsorship for extracurricular sports. She noted, with free education in Anambra, interhouse events offer a key opportunity to identify talent and called on parents, philanthropists, and communities to support young athletes.
In his contribution, an aspirant for the Federal House of Representatives for Idemili North and South, Dr. Kene Igboebisi, explained, sports complement education by building character, confidence, leadership, and focus. He urged stakeholders to invest in equipment, mentorship, and events to nurture talent.
Earlier, the Chairman of the occasion, Barr. Dr. Felix Uzo, encouraged students and staff to embrace healthy competition and fair play. Lagos House emerged overall winner, dominating most events, while Sokoto House won the march past.
Ugwunze is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
