Edo State’s new Special Adviser on Grassroots Sports Mobilisation, Hon. Frank Ilaboya, says work is under way on an extensive policy designed to use sport as a vehicle for youth engagement and for identifying promising athletes across all communities in the state.
Speaking during the EBS 8pm news broadcast on Monday, Ilaboya said Governor Monday Okpebholo’s decision to establish the office marked an unprecedented step in Edo State.
He said the appointment reflected the governor’s commitment to young people and to finding emerging sporting prospects throughout the state. “This is a landmark move in Edo State, and it demonstrates his affection and commitment to youth development, as well as the discovery of young talents in every part of the state,” Ilaboya said.
Ilaboya expressed gratitude to the governor for entrusting him with the role, promising to reinvigorate sports development at community level. “I wish to reassure the people of Edo State that I am capable of handling this responsibility and will give it everything I have,” he said.
The former Executive Director of the Edo State Sports Commission and past chairman of the Edo State Football Association said his office was preparing an all-encompassing, year-round programme that aligns with Okpebholo’s wider objectives.
He stressed that the initiative would not be limited to scouting and developing talent, but would also create productive activities for young people and reduce their exposure to antisocial behaviour.
“His Excellency is already receiving praise for his practical measures against cultism in Edo State,” Ilaboya said. “Sport remains one of the strongest tools for involving young people and ensuring they are meaningfully occupied.”
He identified consultation with grassroots sports stakeholders as the office’s first major task, with the aim of securing support for the proposed framework. A train-the-trainers initiative will then be introduced to create a pool of qualified community-based partners.
Ilaboya added that the office plans to collaborate with the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, as well as other agencies working with young people.
Governor Okpebholo confirmed Ilaboya’s appointment on 9 October, 2026.
