By Nkechinyere Ewa-Okpara
Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has commended real estate investor and sports enthusiast, Darlington Ugota, for constructing a state-of-the-art basketball academy at Ebonyi State University (EBSU).
Speaking during the official commissioning of the facility Friday, the governor represented by the Deputy Governor, Princess Patricia Obila described the project as a significant contribution to the development of the state and the empowerment of young people through sports.
“You have contributed to the development of our dear state. You are an icon of our state,” Obila said on behalf of the governor. “What you have built here has given more life to people, more hope to those who don’t have direction, and it shall be well with you.”
She emphasised the importance of the facility in discovering and nurturing talents, adding that Ebonyi youths will benefit far beyond the university community.
“By the time we get abroad, we must have raised the hidden talents we have in this university. Not only in this university every Ebonyi person is going to get something here,” she said. “To the students, this is your project. It will help you develop the skills within you. Don’t take it for granted.”
In his remarks, Darlington Ugota, Managing Director of Essithngton Group and founder of the academy, said the facility symbolises vision, hope, and youth empowerment. He noted that sports go beyond competition and are powerful tools for unity, discipline, and leadership.
“Sports is not just a game; it is a platform for unity, discipline, leadership, and transformation,” Ugota said. “We understand that sports connect bridges to destinies. Through this platform, we believe we can raise many superstars.”
He described the basketball court as a long-term investment in the untapped talents of Ebonyi youths and a step toward placing the state on the global sports map.
“This court is not just something to see—it represents our vision to empower and invest in the hidden talents of our young people,” he added. “Ebonyi State University has produced great minds across all disciplines. By adding this sports facility, we are opening a new chapter where academic excellence will meet sports excellence.”
The Vice Chancellor of EBSU, Professor Michael Awoke, expressed his gratitude to Ugota, describing the facility as the first of its kind in the university’s history.
“This is the first in history, and today marks one of my happiest days,” he said. “And it is just the beginning.”
The basketball academy is expected to serve as a training ground for students and youth across Ebonyi State, encouraging sports development alongside academic pursuits.