The Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Amadin Desmond Enabulele, has officially declared open the 2026 “Discovering Tomorrow’s Stars” Grassroots Talent Hunt Programme at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City.
Speaking during the opening ceremony, Enabulele described the initiative as a strategic investment in the future of sports and youth development in Edo State, stressing that the programme goes beyond winning medals and competitions.
According to a statement issued by his Media Aide, Edoko Wilson Edoko, the programme is designed to discover hidden talents in schools and communities across the state and provide young athletes with opportunities to develop their sporting abilities.
Enabulele said the initiative aligns with the vision of Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, especially the administration’s “Catch Them Young” policy under the SHINE Agenda.
“Today is not just about sports. It is about hope, preparation and developing young minds for greater opportunities ahead,” he said.
The Sports Commission boss disclosed that over 20 schools and more than 270 athletes are participating in the competition, featuring events such as Athletics, Judo, Karate, Kung Fu, Wrestling, Taekwondo, Boxing and Kickboxing.
He encouraged participants to remain disciplined, focused and determined, noting that many world champions and Olympians started their careers from grassroots competitions.
Enabulele also commended coaches, teachers, parents, technical officials and members of the organising committee for their commitment to 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 organising the event.
During visits to various competition centres, Enabulele witnessed contests in Judo, Wrestling and Boxing.
In the male Judo category, Miracle Osarobo won gold while Prosper Osadebamwan claimed silver. Destiny Mike and Emmanuel Omofowan secured bronze medals.
In the female category, Grace Vincent won gold, Dumebi Obi took silver, while Gift Opuba and Emmannella Lawrence won 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 stood out 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, Omozane Ebanehita Sonia.