The Enugu State Ministry for Youth and Sports Development has hinted that the significance of the Olympic Day celebration in any modern society cannot be overemphasized, saying that it remains a veritable tool for togetherness, unity, healthy living and social development.
The Ministry further described the celebration as a foundation laying for major sporting activities and breakthroughs in the state, while reiterating the present administration’s determination in the upgrading and development of sports.
Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Barrister Lloyd Ikechukwu Ekwermadu, represented by the Director of Coaching in the Ministry, Dennis Ani, made the comment shortly after the Olympic Day run celebration at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, yesterday.
The Direction who enumerated some of the health and societal benefits of sports, called on well meaning individuals, corporate bodies as well relevant stakeholders to throw their weight behind the sector.
However, this year’s edition of the Celebration which commenced by 10am, witnessed a massive turnout as participants which include officials of the Ministry, cyclists, coaches, sports enthusiasts jogged through some major path of the metropolis, as well as exhibition veteran volleyball match.
Recall that the e Olympic Day Run celebration can be traced back to 1947, when Dr. Gruss, a Czech IOC member presented the idea of a World Olympic Day at the 41st session of the International Olympic Committee in Stockholm, Sweden, which would set aside a day to celebrate everything the Olympic Movement stands for.
