Okpebholo rewards 10-year-old chess medalist
By Maxwell Kumoye and Kehinde Osagiede
Team Edo’s impressive outing at the second edition of the Niger Delta Games continues to yield rewards, with Governor Monday Okpebholo honouring the athletes and officials after their historic triumph at the regional competition.
At a grand reception held at the Government House in Benin City, the governor celebrated the team for finishing top at the Niger Delta Games, marking Edo State’s first major sporting title in about 24 years.
One of the most memorable moments of the ceremony came when the governor singled out 10-year-old chess player, Esohe Mfon Shadrach, who won a bronze medal at the Games.
Moved by her achievement at such a young age, Okpebholo directed that the young athlete be brought to his office alongside her coaches.
Through his Chief Protocol Officer, the governor presented the young chess player with a souvenir and a cash reward of N1 million to support her budding career and assist her family.
He also rewarded Team Edo coaches with N5 million for their efforts in guiding the athletes to victory.
The Edo contingent, led by Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Amadin Desmond Enabulele, was received at the Government House following their dominant performance at the Games, tagged Edo 2026.
In line with the governor’s directive, Enabulele on Wednesday formally presented the N1 million cash reward to Esohe in his office in the presence of her parents.
The family expressed gratitude to the governor and the Sports Commission for the gesture.
Enabulele said the recognition would further motivate athletes in the state to strive for greater success.
“On behalf of the Edo State Sports Commission and the entire Team Edo family, I sincerely appreciate His Excellency for this remarkable show of love and encouragement.
This will only spur us to do more for the state,” he said.
He added that such moments would inspire young athletes to pursue excellence while proudly representing Edo State in future competitions.
Team Edo’s victory at the Niger Delta Games ended a long wait for a major title, with the state having consistently finished between second and fifth in regional and national competitions since last winning the National Sports Festival in 2002.
Sports enthusiasts and business owners around the stadium, as well as athletes and coaches, have also described the regional sports fiesta organised by the Niger Delta Development Commission and Dunamis Icon as a major boost for sports development and economic activity in the state.
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