Edo Sports Commission, Red Cross Partner to Empower Youth, Promote Healthy Living

In a renewed drive to strengthen youth development and promote community health, the Edo State Sports Commission and the Nigerian Red Cross Society (NRCS), Edo State Branch, have agreed to forge a partnership aimed at expanding humanitarian and developmental impact across the state.

The collaboration was set in motion on Monday when a delegation from the Red Cross, led by its Branch Adviser, Mr. Smart Aigbuza, paid a courtesy visit to the Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, at his office in Benin City.

Speaking during the visit, the Branch Secretary, Mr. Wilson Ekhomogiazin, highlighted the Red Cross’s ongoing humanitarian initiatives, emphasizing its commitment to youth empowerment, first aid training, and community service. He noted that partnering with the Sports Commission would help the organization reach more young people and promote a culture of health and service through sports.

“Sports is a unifying force that engages the youth constructively,” Ekhomogiazin said. “By working together, we can build stronger, healthier communities and prepare our young people with life-saving skills and leadership values.”

Responding, Hon. Enabulele commended the Red Cross for its tireless humanitarian work and reaffirmed the Commission’s readiness to collaborate on joint programmes that align with Edo State’s youth and sports development goals.

“We appreciate the invaluable work the Red Cross is doing across our communities,” Enabulele stated. “Sports is more than competition—it’s a tool for shaping disciplined, healthy, and socially responsible citizens. This partnership is a welcome development that will certainly benefit our youth.”

He assured the Red Cross team of the Commission’s support in implementing initiatives such as first aid awareness at sporting events, talent development programmes, and youth-focused health campaigns.

Also present at the meeting were Branch Adviser, Mr. Smart Aigbuza; Branch Secretary, Mr. Wilson Ekhomogiazin; Mr. Osarenmwense Lucky; Ms. Blessing John; Mr. Ndukwu Christian Justice; Mr. Arowolo Taufeek Godsgift; Ms. Allinson Omotojosinafisat, Branch Commission Officer; and Hon. Kenny Isokpan, Youth Chair, Edo State.