The Wife of the Anambra State Governor, Dr Nonye Soludo, has described sports as a powerful tool for character formation, discipline and social inclusion among youths in society.
Soludo stated this on Wednesday in Awka while flagging off the second edition of the Nonye Soludo Volleyball Championship.
The championship, which began on Wednesday, Dec. 17, is expected to end on Saturday, Dec. 20, with the grand finale.
She said the competition was designed to promote youth development, teamwork and healthy competition through sports, adding that it was part of broader efforts to positively engage young people, discover talents and encourage unity in the state.
According to her, the tournament would also serve as a platform for nurturing future volleyball stars in Anambra.
“I encourage our youths to take the tournament seriously because sports remains a powerful tool for character building and social inclusion,” Soludo said.
She commended the organisers, coaches and participating teams for their commitment to the championship and urged athletes to exhibit sportsmanship and fair play throughout the competition.
Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the Anambra State Sports Development Commission, Mr Patrick Onyedum, described the championship as a laudable initiative that aligned with the state government’s drive to empower youths through sports.
He expressed optimism that the competition would further strengthen the development of volleyball in the state and beyond.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike, said 15 out of the 21 expected teams from the state’s local government areas were participating in the championship.
The event attracted sports administrators, youth leaders, volleyball enthusiasts and supporters, as teams from across Anambra State compete for honours in the four-day tournament.