Njikoka Shines Bright at ANSSI as Soludo Champions Grassroots Talent with Multi-Million Naira Rewards

 

Njikoka Local Government Area delivered a stunning performance to emerge victorious in the third edition of the Anambra Sports Solution Initiative (ANSSI), a youth-focused sporting event aimed at harnessing talent across the state’s primary and secondary schools. The grand finale, which was held at the Awka Township Stadium, attracted top government officials and a lively crowd eager to cheer on the young athletes.

Governor Charles Soludo, who attended the final day of the tournament, handed out millions in prize money to winners. His presence underscored the significance his administration places on youth development through sports. Alongside key commissioners and aides, Soludo emphasized the role of sports in shaping not just future champions but also disciplined and focused individuals who will drive the state's future.

The tournament saw enthusiastic participation from all 21 local government areas of the state. After days of competitive events across various sports disciplines, Njikoka clinched the overall trophy with a total of 40 medals, made up of 18 gold, 14 silver, and eight bronze. Their disciplined coordination and standout performances left a lasting impression on spectators and officials alike.

Awka South, the host LGA, narrowly missed out on the top spot but still secured a commendable second position with 17 gold, 14 silver, and 14 bronze medals, totaling 45. Despite earning the highest number of medals overall, their gold medal count fell just short of Njikoka’s.

Nnewi North finished third with a total of 47 medals. However, the area managed only 16 gold medals, which placed them behind Njikoka and Awka South in the final standings. Notably, 14 out of the 16 gold medals for Nnewi North came from a single school – Vision High School, Nnewi – a performance that highlighted the school’s remarkable dominance in the competition.

One of the most touching moments of the event came when two seven-year-old girls, Chiamaka Moses and Victoria Ejiofor, were called out by the governor for special recognition. Chiamaka, a Chess prodigy, earned a silver medal while Victoria competed in Scrabble. Both girls attend Township Primary School, Onitsha, and were given ₦100,000 each by the governor as a personal gesture of encouragement and support. This moment drew loud applause and served as a clear signal of the administration’s commitment to nurturing talent from the earliest stages.

Governor Soludo, addressing journalists after the award presentation, described the event as a celebration of not just sports, but of potential. He explained that his government is focused on building a thriving sports economy that supports talent discovery, development, and professional progression. “We want these children to believe they can rise from their classrooms and playing fields to represent Nigeria and even win international laurels,” he said.

His comments reflected a broader vision that includes creating structures and partnerships to sustain the momentum generated by initiatives like ANSSI. The governor hinted at increased investment in sports infrastructure and training programs across all local government areas, with an emphasis on rural communities where hidden talents often go unnoticed.

Coordinators of ANSSI praised the massive turnout and competitive spirit displayed throughout the tournament. Many observers were particularly impressed with the high level of discipline, skill, and determination exhibited by the participating students. They noted that the event has grown in both scale and impact since its inception, pointing to the success of this year’s edition as evidence of its rising importance in the state’s educational and developmental agenda.

Parents, school administrators, and sports enthusiasts hailed the initiative as a game-changer. Many called for continued government support to ensure that grassroots sports continue to thrive. The consensus was that ANSSI has become more than a sports competition – it is now a platform for transformation, one medal and one dream at a time.

As the sun set on the Awka Township Stadium, the cheers still echoed, and so did the message: Anambra’s children are ready to rise. And with leaders like Governor Soludo putting their weight behind them, the future of sports in the state looks brighter than ever.