RE: CLARIFICATION ON ALLEGED NON-FUNDING OF A PRIVATE FOOTBALL CLUB

PRESS RELEASE
CROSS RIVER STATE SPORTS COMMISSION (CRSSC)

RE: CLARIFICATION ON ALLEGED NON-FUNDING OF A PRIVATE FOOTBALL CLUB

The Cross River State Sports Commission (CRSSC) wishes to formally address recent public commentary credited to Mr. Olukunbi Olatayo, which suggests that the State Government failed to sponsor or financially support a privately owned football club for participation in a national competition.

For the avoidance of doubt, the club in question, E-World FC, is a privately owned and privately funded football team established and managed by an individual resident in Calabar. The club does not fall under the category of government-owned or government-sponsored teams. Consequently, its financial responsibilities—including competition entry, logistics, player welfare, and general operations—rest solely with its proprietors and management.

The Commission reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the growth and development of sports across Cross River State. However, it is important to clarify that any assistance extended to privately owned clubs is purely discretionary, offered as a goodwill gesture in support of sports development, and does not constitute a statutory funding obligation of government.

It is also pertinent to highlight that, in demonstration of its continued support for sporting activities within the state, the Commission previously provided logistical assistance in the form of a state-owned bus to facilitate the team’s participation in an away fixture in Bayelsa State. This reflects the government’s encouragement of private sector involvement in sports and its broader commitment to fostering sporting excellence.

The Commission therefore urges members of the public, stakeholders, and commentators to verify information before dissemination and to ensure that public discourse remains grounded in facts. Misrepresentation of facts has the potential to distort public understanding and undermine ongoing efforts to strengthen sports development in the state.

The Cross River State Sports Commission remains committed to constructive engagement with both public and private sports stakeholders, and will continue to promote policies that encourage collaboration, transparency, and sustainable sports development.

Signed:
Hon. Etta Lawrence Itanya
Chairman
Cross River State Sports Commission (CRSSC)