Anambra plans grassroots sports academies to develop young talent

Anambra State is preparing to establish sports academies across all 21 local government areas as part of a plan to create a lasting pathway for young people to find and develop sporting talent.

Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development Patrick Agha Mba announced the plan while receiving Anambra’s taekwondo contingent in Awka after the recent national championship in Lagos. He praised the athletes for their performance and said their success had brought recognition to the state.

Anambra retained first place at the championship for a third consecutive edition. The team also received the award for Best Committed Team to the Development of Taekwondo. The contingent was led by coach Jude Nwafor and included Oranye Chibikem, Chizaram Nwafor, Kamsiyochukwu Eke, Melvin Obilo, Chimbuodogwu Nwafor and Kamsiyonna Nwamara.

Oranye continued a notable run by winning a gold medal at the National Youth Games for the third successive time. Nwamara, aged 14, also became the first athlete to secure a bronze medal in the heavyweight category at the national trials.

Mba said the achievements reflected discipline, effort, determination and commitment from the athletes. He added that Governor Charles Soludo’s administration was working to provide conditions that would support sports and youth development, with the government’s plans extending beyond success in competitions.

The proposed academies are intended to provide structured training, professional development and the wider support required for athletes seeking to compete at the highest levels. The commissioner said the programme would help young people pursue sport as a viable career while strengthening talent discovery at grassroots level.

Mba also stressed the importance of continued investment in youth empowerment through sport. He urged the athletes to remain focused and disciplined as Anambra seeks to build on its growing strength in sports development.