Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike has lauded the Minister of Sports, Hon. Solomon Dalung for his commitment to the development of a united Nigeria, irrespective of party affiliation.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by the Minister of Sports at the Government House Port Harcourt yesterday, Governor Wike said the Minister of Sports has shown uncommon courage in allowing Rivers State to host the national wrestling championship and the African Wrestling Championship in 2018.
He said: “If we have Ministers like you, nobody will be talking about political parties. People like you work well for Mr President. People like you are the ones Mr President needs to move the country forward.
“What you have done for Rivers State is not what money can buy. You have by this action introduced a positive for Rivers State. You are telling the world that Rivers State is peaceful and a place to invest.”
Governor Wike also praised the President of the Nigerian Wrestling Federation, Daniel Igali for his decision to promote the hosting of the championship in Rivers State.
In his remarks, Minister of Sports, Hon Solomon Dalung said that wrestling is traditional to Nigeria; hence the country will continue to excel in the sport.
He commended Governor Wike for his investments in the development of Sports, noting that the facilities put in place for the competition are world class.
The minister said that over 700 athletes, 300 officials, 24 states and 12 Wrestling Clubs are participating in the Governor Wike National Wrestling Championship.
He said while most states have neglected sports, Rivers State Governor is promoting sports, thereby enhancing social cohesion.
The sports minister later unveiled the mascot and logo for the African Wrestling Championship during the opening ceremony of the National Wrestling championship, which was declared open by Governor Wike.
