By Ijeoma Okigbo
The FCT Sports Department has urged stakeholders and residents in the FCT to declare interest in sports associations’ membership.
Luka Istifanus, the FCT Director of Sports, made the call at a news conference in Abuja on Tuesday.
He said membership forms were available and free for residents of the city, and that necessary screening and vetting would be applied.
“We are here to kickstart a process introduced by the immediate past Mandate Secretary of Youth and Sports Development, Lawan Geidam.
“For over three years, we have been running sports in FCT under a caretaker committee, which has very limited powers.
“When Geidam came on board, he saw the challenge and began initiating a process of getting a board for the sports association, one that will get the approval of the FCT Minister.
“Thankfully, we have gotten the approval required, and we are calling on sports enthusiasts, stakeholders, and residents to join the FCT sports association.
“From April 1 to April 30, the membership and nomination forms, which are free of charge, will be available at the FCT Sports Department at the National Open University complex, Area 3.
“ FCT residents have the opportunity to express interest in any sport of their choice with a minimum of First School Leaving Certificate.
“The membership is for four years when inaugurated, and we encourage sports enthusiasts, including sports writers, to declare interest in joining sports associations,’’ Istifanus added.
On her part, Esther Whoba, the Deputy Director, Technical in the Sports/Youth Department, urged philanthropists to indicate interest in developing sports in the FCT.
“We encourage sports lovers, especially credible philanthropists to pick forms and join the association to encourage the growth and development of sports across the FCT.
“Their support, both financially and through mentorship, will help nurture young talents, improve sporting facilities, and create more opportunities for athletes to excel at local, national, and international levels.
“By becoming active members, stakeholders can contribute meaningfully to building a sustainable sports ecosystem that promotes unity, healthy living, and youth empowerment in the FCT,’’ she added.
Also present at the event was Iyiola Ogundele, the Deputy Director (Sports Development) FCT. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Joseph Edeh
