March 12, (THEWILL) — The National Orientation Agency (NOA) in Akwa Ibom State has called for a renewed emphasis on sports in secondary schools as a strategic pathway for talent discovery and youth development.
The State Director of NOA, Mr Mkpoutom Mkpoutom, made the call during the annual Inter-House Sports Festival of Kingdom Ray Nursery, Primary and Secondary Schools in Ikot Obio Ndoho, Mkpat Enin Local Government Area.
Speaking at the event, Mkpoutom stressed that secondary schools remain one of the most effective platforms for discovering and nurturing young sporting talents capable of representing the state and the nation in the future.
He urged school administrators, sports coaches, and community leaders to work together to organise regular inter-school competitions, training programmes, and structured talent-hunt initiatives across the state.
According to him, strengthening school sports would not only uncover hidden abilities among young people but also promote discipline, teamwork, and physical fitness among students.
“Sports have the power to transform lives and communities. By investing in school sports, we are not just producing athletes; we are building responsible citizens who understand the values of teamwork, perseverance and fair play”, he said.
The NOA director noted that Nigeria has historically produced many outstanding athletes through school sports programmes, stressing that reviving the culture would help restore the country’s sporting glory while providing meaningful opportunities for young people.
He commended the proprietor of Kingdom Ray Schools, Mr Nnamnso Nsikan Okon, for sustaining the annual sports festival and creating a platform for students to showcase their abilities.
Educators and sports enthusiasts who attended the event welcomed the call, describing it as timely and necessary in efforts to strengthen grassroots sports development in Akwa Ibom State.
They noted that sustained collaboration between government agencies, schools, and communities would be key to discovering the next generation of Nigerian sports champions.
The annual inter-house sports competition featured various track and field events, drawing participation from students, teachers, and community members, and highlighting the growing interest in grassroots sports development in the state.
