“Valid and Genuine” Nigeria Pillar of Sports, Ejidike hails Sportsville Sports Award
In a time when recognition often feels fleeting, the Sportsville Special Recognition Awards has emerged as a rare and powerful reminder of the value of genuine contribution to nation-building through sports. Chief Donatus Agu Ejidike, J.P., the revered Nigeria Pillar of Sports, has hailed the initiative as not only authentic and credible but deeply inspiring—an annual tradition that stirs the hearts of those tirelessly working behind the scenes to grow Nigerian sports.
With emotion-laden words, Chief Ejidike commended the man behind the movement, Hon. Frank Ilaboya, a veteran sports journalist and the MD/CEO of Sportsville Communication Services Ltd. According to him, Frank’s vision and integrity, paired with his decades of experience, have given birth to an event that is not only credible but a catalyst for change. “This is more than an award show,” Ejidike noted, “it’s a call to action for everyone who believes in the power of sports to transform lives.”
Represented at the 5th edition of the awards held at the prestigious Eko Club in Lagos by Prince Olayioye Shola Ajide, Chairman of the Office of the Nigeria Pillar of Sports, Ejidike described the night as nothing short of magical. The red carpet welcomed a star-studded lineup—athletes, coaches, sports administrators, and legends, all gathered under one roof not for glamour, but for honor. And what made the occasion truly special was the authenticity of the awards themselves.
“These awards are not for sale,” Ejidike emphasized. “They’re earned—through sacrifice, excellence, and service to the Nigerian sporting community.” He was visibly moved by the integrity with which the event was executed, noting that each recipient’s journey told a story of grit, resilience, and unwavering commitment.
The former President of the Karate Federation of Nigeria made a strong case for deeper investment in grassroots sports development. According to him, the foundation for Nigeria’s sporting greatness lies not in big stadiums or international trophies alone, but in the communities—where passion is raw, talent is abundant, and opportunities are rare. He stressed that the recognition of sportsmen and women, especially those working outside the limelight, is a step toward building a stronger and more inclusive future for Nigerian sports.
The evening saw the presentation of over 22 prestigious awards across various categories, from icons and innovators to corporate bodies and football administrators. Among the celebrated were renowned names like 84-year-old FIFA instructor and retired referee Linus Mba, Coach Fanny Amu, Davidson Owumi, Rotimi Pedro, Terry Eguaoje, and Emmanuel Osahon.
Each award handed out wasn’t just a plaque—it was a salute to decades of selfless service, a tribute to legacies that have helped shape Nigerian sports, and a nudge to the next generation to keep pushing forward.
At its heart, the Sportsville Awards remind us of something simple yet profound: when we honor our heroes, we inspire others to become one.
