Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has appointed former Edo State Football Association chairman, Frank Ilaboya, as Special Adviser on Grassroots Sports Mobilisation.

The appointment, which takes immediate effect, is aimed at strengthening grassroots sports development, expanding talent discovery and creating more opportunities for young athletes across the state.

The decision was conveyed in a letter dated Friday, October 9, 2026, and signed by the Secretary to the Edo State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor.

Ilaboya is expected to bring his experience in sports administration, football development and journalism to bear on the state government’s efforts to promote sports at the community level.

A seasoned sports administrator and journalist, Ilaboya previously served as chairman of the Edo State Football Association, where he was involved in football administration and development in the state.

He also served as chairman of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Lagos State chapter, giving him experience across both sports administration and media relations.

His appointment is expected to strengthen efforts to identify promising young athletes, support their development and create pathways for them to progress from grassroots participation to elite competition.

In his new role, Ilaboya is expected to work with schools, local sports associations, community clubs and other stakeholders to expand participation and improve talent identification across Edo State.

Effective collaboration among these groups could help establish a more coordinated grassroots sports system, ensuring that emerging talents receive the guidance and opportunities needed to develop their abilities.

The role also presents an opportunity to encourage wider participation in sports among young people while strengthening community-based programmes across the state.

With his background in football administration and sports journalism, Ilaboya is expected to contribute to initiatives designed to broaden Edo’s sporting base and improve the state’s capacity to produce athletes capable of competing at national and international levels.

His appointment comes with expectations that grassroots sports mobilisation will translate into practical programmes, stronger community engagement and a sustainable pathway for talent development across Edo State.