27 Sports Associations’ Chairmen Inaugurated In C’River As Itanya Charges Unity

CALABAR – The Cross River State Sports Commission has officially inaugurated 25 sports association chairmen in Calabar, in what officials describe as a renewed effort to reposition sports development and restore the state’s competitive edge in national sports.

The ceremony, presided over by the Chairman of the Commission, Lawrence Etta Itanya, brought together sports administrators, association leaders, and stakeholders across the state’s sporting sector.

In his address, Itanya congratulated the newly inaugurated chairmen, saying he could already “see the spirit of unity and commitment” among them, which, according to him, gives confidence in the future of sports development in the state.

He said the inauguration goes beyond ceremony, describing it as a call to responsibility and collective leadership.

“Today is not just about celebration; it is about responsibility, vision, and collective commitment,” he said, adding that the Commission has “full support and cooperation” for the new association leaders as they begin their assignments.

The Commission chairman stressed the need for unity among stakeholders, warning that progress would only be achieved through collaboration.

He stated that the state must function “as one united family,” emphasizing that success in sports administration depends on teamwork and shared purpose.

Truth Live News reports that Itanya also noted that Cross River State must urgently reclaim its place in national sports discussions.

According to him, the state has been “absent for too long in the conversations where greatness is discussed in football and sports development,” adding that this situation must change through deliberate effort and discipline.

“It is only through unity, dedication, and community spirit that we can rewrite the story of Cross River State and restore our pride on the national and global stage,” Itanya said.

Indirectly, the Commission chairman reiterated that the new association leaders carry a heavy responsibility to reposition their respective sports disciplines, stressing that leadership must be driven by integrity, accountability, and cooperation with the Commission.

He further explained that the success of the sports sector would depend on how well associations work together, noting that personal interests must be set aside for collective progress

The Commission also reaffirmed its commitment to due process and transparency in sports administration, urging the newly inaugurated chairmen to maintain discipline and respect for constituted authority in the discharge of their duties.

In his remarks, Itanya also highlighted the importance of sports in youth development and national unity, describing it as a critical tool for social cohesion and talent development.

The event also featured commendation for Nigerian athletes who have continued to excel internationally, particularly in para-cycling and other sporting events.

The Commission noted that such achievements demonstrate what is possible when athletes receive adequate support and proper management structures.

The 27 newly inaugurated association chairmen were charged to return to their various bodies and drive grassroots development, talent discovery, and improved competitiveness across all sporting disciplines in the state.

The ceremony ended on a hopeful note, with stakeholders expressing optimism that the new leadership structure would strengthen coordination among associations and reposition Cross River State as a stronger force in Nigerian sports.