National Sports Festival not postponed indefinitely – Minister

The Nigeria sports minister has denied news reports stating that the Edo 2020 National Sports Festival has been postponed indefinitely.  He tagged the reports as false and unfounded as the Ministry has not made a final decision.

A statement by the Minister of Youth and Sports Development   Media Office clarified that consultations were ongoing between the Ministry, the Edo State Government, the PTF on Covid-19, and the National Council on Sports to decide on a new date to host the Festival.

“Like we did by consulting with the PTF on Covid-19 when we lifted the ban on non-contact sports and later contact sports, discussions are ongoing to decide on a new date for the Festival.

“We are considering a staggered Festival spanning several weeks and athletes batched, no fans and strict adherence to the Covid-19 protocols. While we are committed to holding the Festival, we do not want to endanger the lives of athletes and officials. Be assured that a decision would be taken in line with Government’s guidelines in the best interest of the common good of our sports and the athletes.”

The  National  Sports Festival  which was  earlier scheduled to hold in March in Benin City, Edo State was postponed  due to the outbreak of Covid-19 pandemic which also affected social, economic  activities.