Ex – Boxing International, Mazi Ikechukwu Okoronkwo, has raised alarm over the practice by some states to borrow athletes from other states to represent them in national competitions.
Describing the situation as worrisome and a pressing issue affecting the country’s sports development, Mazi Okoronkwo accused the South East States and states in the North of brazenly engaging in the act which has diminished the influence and intent of such national events.
The Ex – Boxing International who alleged that the accused states borrow these athletes from specific states, like Lagos, regretted that it undermines the vision of promoting grassroots development and inclusivity across all 36 states.
According to him, “this trend could have long-term negative effects on Nigeria’s performance in international competitions, including the Olympics.
“The focus should be on empowering local talents and providing resources for athletes from rural and urban communities to develop their skills.It’s essential to recognize the importance of fair representation and equal opportunities for all states.
“The current system may be depriving talented youths from participating and showcasing their abilities.”
Mazi Okoronkwo who is engaged in developing raw talents from the grassroots in Enugu State made it clear that his personal experience and achievements in discovering boxing talents are testaments to the potentials that lie within these communities.
He therefore called on both the Federal and state governments to immediately address this disturbing development perpetrated by some unpatriotic sports administrators through ensuring that sports development policies are implemented uniformly with grassroots programs prioritized.
“This would not only promote unity and fair competition but also contribute to Nigeria’s overall performance in international sports events,” Okoronkwo argued.
