Cross River swept 85 percent of the athletics medals at the National School Sports Festival recently concluded in Calabar.

And this, came as no surprise to athletics buffs who have noted the developmental programme put in place by the State governor Liyel Imoke. Cross River out-shone traditional powerhouses such as Delta, Edo and Lagos.

In the next five years, Cross River State is hoping to dominate Nigerian athletics and also supply the bulk of the athletes that will represent Nigeria at international meets.

Ex-internationals Chioma Ajunwa and Henry Amike gave the Cross River kudos for taking the initiative to resuscitate athletics in Nigeria.

“I really praise the State governor for what he is doing. Cross River is doing exactly what we ex-internationals have been clamouring for. If only other States can do what they are doing in Calabar our athletics will rise again.

“They deserved what they getting this is because they have been working, while others are sleeping. I would really encourage other states to follow suit and there would be even development,” said Ajunwa who is Nigeria’s first Olympic gold medalist.

Amike who is still Nigeria’s 400m hurdles 24 years after, also hailed the Cross River programme.

“It wasn’t there in Calabar to see the school sports. But I’m happy with Cross Rivers State government’s effort. They should keep it up,” Amike said.