The Wife of the Anambra State Governor, Dr Nonye Soludo, says sports remains a powerful tool for character formation and social inclusion among youths in the society.
Soludo made the assertion on Wednesday in Awka while flagging off the 2nd edition of the Nonye Soludo Volleyball Championship.
The championship, which runs from Dec. 17 to Dec. 20, will feature group stage matches on Dec. 17 and Dec. 18, while the finals are scheduled for Dec. 20.
She said the competition was aimed at promoting youth development, teamwork and healthy competition through sports.
According to her, the tournament is part of efforts to positively engage young people, discover talents and encourage discipline and unity among youths in the state.
“This competition will also serve as a platform for nurturing future volleyball stars.
“I encourage our youths to take the tournament seriously because sports remains a powerful tool for character building and social inclusion,” she said.
Soludo commended the organisers, coaches and participating teams for their commitment to the success of the championship.
She urged the athletes to exhibit sportsmanship and fair play throughout the competition.
Also speaking, the Chairman, 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.
In his remarks, the state Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike, said 15 out of the 21 expected teams from the 21 local government areas were participating in the championship.
The event attracted sports administrators, youth leaders, volleyball enthusiasts and supporters, as teams from across Anambra compete for honours in the four-day tournament
