Otukpo (Benue) – Ibrahim Mohammad, President of Nigeria Schools Sports Federation (NSSF), says Otukpo’s hosting of the 7th National Schools Sports Festival will bring lasting changes to schools in the local government area.
Mohammad, while briefing newsmen on Monday in Otukpo, Benue on the festival’s benefits to the host city, said “most of the schools in the area are in poor conditions in terms of infrastructure’’
The 2014 National Schools Sports Festival, tagged “Mark of Excellence’’, is holding in Otukpo at the instance of Senate President David Mark.
“In terms of infrastructure for sporting and accommodation purposes, Otukpo is way behind. But, with the schools sports festival now here, the facilities have undergone some form of facelift since the festival commenced on Nov. 6,’’ Mohammad said.
He said the sports festival would also inspire the sporting spirit in students in the area and leave the schools which were used for the festival with lasting legacies.
The NSSF president thanked Mark for identifying with the federation and giving the Otukpo local government area the privilege of hosting a large number of Nigerian sporting children.
“The festival is impacting on the social life of Otukpo. The schools are now being renovated with mosquito nets, carpets, painting and landscaping.
“Food vendors are everywhere for anyone who wish to enjoy Benue food. The economy is booming, and the children are happy seeing each other.
“All these have been made possible by the Senate President and the facilities shall remain with them when we leave,’’ he said.
Meanwhile, the festival’s screening exercise was conducted on Monday with competition expected in various events on Tuesday.
A total of 21 events will take place at 11 venues, including St. Francis College, St. Anne’s Secondary School, Wesley High School, Jesus College and Govt. Day Secondary School.
The rest are Bishop Okwoche Grammar School, IG Mark Court, St. Mark’s Golf Club, Golf Club Akpegede and David Mark’s House.(NAN)
