Oshiomhole splashes N41m on Edo athletes, appoints Itemuagbor adviser without pay

EDO State Governor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole has splashed N41 million cash reward on the state athletes to the 2012 National Sports Festival, which held in Lagos, condemning the win-at-all-cost attitude of some states, saying it does not augur well for the sports development of the country.

The Governor who held a reception for the athletes at the Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, Tuesday, announced a cash reward of N1m, N300,000 and N200,000 respectively for each Gold, Silver and Bronze medals won at the festival.

Oshomhole with Edo athletes

The coaches and officials that led the athletes to the Festival were not left out of the reward as the Governor announced a cash prize of one million naira each for every gold winning coach while other coaches received N300, 000.

The governor also appointed astute sports marketer, Mike Itemuagbor, adviser on sports matters to the state. But Itemuagbor will be rendering selfless service to the state as he would not be paid for his services.

The State won a total ninety three medals at the Festival, made up of 25 Gold, 24 Silver and 44 Bronze medals.

The stars of the state at the Festival were a female Swimmer
Victoria Ajakaiye who won 5 Gold and 2 Silver medals; Weightlifter Gideon Aigbefor who won 3 Gold Medals and female Gymnast, Melvin Amenaghawon who won 2 Gold Medals.