From TCNEWS
In a bid to foster holistic development in students, the Executive Chairman of the Abia State Universal Basic Education Board (ASUBEB), Mrs. Lydia Onuoha, underscored the importance of extracurricular activities in schools, emphasizing that not all students are destined for academic careers.

This was highlighted during a meeting of sports desk officers and coordinators at ASUBEB headquarters in Umuahia.
Represented by Board Member 1, Dr. Onyebuchi Onyegbule, Mrs. Onuoha cited the success of renowned footballer Kanu Nwankwo, who rose to fame through sports.

She urged officers to leverage the Basic Education School Sports (BESS) platform to unearth and nurture talents, stressing that sports play a crucial role in human development.
She advised against focusing solely on monetary rewards, which could undermine the mission’s noble intentions, and encouraged seeking clarifications when necessary.
ASUBEB Board Secretary Dr. Uzoamaka Amah-Mbah, overseeing the Special Programme Department, highlighted the social benefits of sports, noting its role in combating mental health issues like depression and drug abuse, while fostering unity among children from diverse backgrounds.

She emphasized that physical fitness enhances brain function, leading to improved academic performance, and urged officers to integrate sports into school life, involving local dignitaries for sponsorship.
Ms. Unyime Umoette, the Abia State UBEC Coordinator, provided an overview of basic education sports, emphasizing its role in developing life skills.
She encouraged collaboration with international bodies like FIFA and the British Council to enhance sports education.
ASUBEB Desk Officer Mrs. Kingsley Grace Nwokeukwu announced the administration’s commitment to sports development, with a four-year counterpart fund already paid.
She outlined the year’s activities from school to national levels, advocating for partnerships with PTAs and community groups for sponsorship.
Mrs. Ngozi Onyemeribeya from the National Association of Physical and Health Education Sports and Dance (NAPHERSD) detailed the roles of various stakeholders, while Mr. Udeh Jerry Basil from the Sports Council explained the scope of BESS, targeting students aged 5 to 16, and NSSF for ages 6 to 18.
He urged officers to avoid conflicts and pledged his support.
Mr. Abengowe Henry Iheanyi, representing the Ministry of Education and NAPHERSD, informed attendees of the governor’s directive for two hours of compulsory sports every Wednesday, facilitated through the BESS platform.

The meeting, which included a Q&A session, was attended by ASUBEB Public Relations Officer Mr. Okey Ihekaibeya, stakeholders from the State Ministry of Education, and various sports desk officers, all committed to revitalizing sports in Abia State schools.