Prominent sports administrators, journalists and industry stakeholders have commended Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, for appointing former Edo State Football Association chairman, Frank Areguame Ilaboya, as Special Adviser on Grassroots Sports Mobilisation.
Those who hailed the appointment include former Director-General of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), Nasir Danladi Bako; immediate past Nigeria National League (NNL) chairman, George Aluo; President of the Guild of Sports Editors, Tony Ubani; veteran sports journalist Ade Ojeikere; and Chief Executive Officer of Hotspot International, Taye Ige.
In a congratulatory statement, Bako, the Kogunan Sokoto, described Ilaboya’s appointment as well deserved, citing his years of experience in sports journalism and football administration.
He said Ilaboya had earned the opportunity through his long-standing commitment to sports development, which culminated in his tenure as chairman of the Edo State Football Association.
“Frank has earned this appointment deservedly, considering his long years of service as a sports writer, later culminating in the exalted position of chairman of the Edo State Football Association,” Bako said.
He also praised Ilaboya’s determination, resilience and capacity to deliver results, describing him as well qualified for the responsibility.
“His years of toil and sweat, embedded in his sheer doggedness, stiff determination and unhindered capacity to achieve results, make him most qualified and acceptable for this job,” he added.
Bako urged the new appointee to prioritise growth and development in carrying out his responsibilities, particularly in mobilising talent and strengthening sports at the grassroots.
He prayed for God’s guidance and success for Ilaboya, expressing confidence that he would contribute meaningfully to sports development in Edo State and Nigeria.
Aluo, who recently completed his tenure as NNL chairman, also welcomed the appointment, describing it as recognition of Ilaboya’s contributions to sports development.
He said the appointment reflected Ilaboya’s place in the sector, not only in Edo State but across the country.
Similarly, Ubani expressed delight at the appointment, describing it as an honour to members of the sports journalism community.
“Ilaboya’s appointment is an honour to us. Many more good things are on the way for our members,” the Guild of Sports Editors president said.
Ojeikere, a veteran sports journalist, congratulated Ilaboya and thanked Governor Okpebholo for what he described as a fitting appointment.
Ige, the chief executive officer of Hotspot International, also praised the governor for selecting Ilaboya for the role, saying the decision demonstrated foresight.
“This is a well-thought-out appointment. His Excellency, the Governor, was rightly advised on the choice of Frank Ilaboya. This is putting the right pegs in the right holes,” Ige said.
The endorsements have highlighted expectations that Ilaboya will use his experience in sports journalism and football administration to strengthen grassroots mobilisation and support the development of sporting talent in Edo State.
