Gombe commits to grassroot sports development
Joshua Danmalam
Secretary to the Gombe State Government Prof. Ibrahim Njodi, on Thursday, assured Gombe residents about the determination of the current administration to improve sports.
He disclosed this on Wednesday, at the final of Shongom Unity Football Competition, at Boh Primary School play ground, Shongom LGA, adding that plans are underway for the construction of a mini Stadium in the area to attract more interested youths.
Njodi who was the Special Guest of honor at the event commended the organizers for their efforts in enhancing Unity through Sports, stressing that Governor Inuwa Yahaya dispensation is willing to partner and support development of talents.
“I wish to challenge the my dear youths to ensure they combine sports with their individual educational pursuits as it is practised globally.
“Youths must stay away from engaging in substance abuse, capable of derailing their goals.
“Plans are on by government to construct a stadium in this area to attract more talents,” Njodi said.
While commending the participating Football teams in the competition, the secretary to the state government assured them of maximum support in future, advising them to make it annually involving all youth across Gombe South.
In their separate remarks, the Director National Centre for Remote Sensing Jos, Dr. Efron Gajere, state House of Assembly member representing Kaltungo West Bashir Barau Yakubu, the representative of the state Sports Commission and the District Head of Shongom Dahiru Alfayo, all lauded the genuine commitment of the convener, the organising committee as well as the participants for the peaceful conduct of the competition.
On his part, The convener of the competition, Mr Jonathan Simon, said he was motivated by the yearning desire to bring youths together to foster unity in Gombe State.
He said, “We started from Shongom LGA using the instrument of sports.”
Simon further appealed to the State Government and well meaning individuals to support and encourage the initiative.
Highlight of the event was presentation of awards to Prof. Njodi, Dr Efron Gajere, Dr, Sam Alfayo, in recognition of their tremendous support to the course of young people.
However, out of 24 teams that took part in the tournament, Kulishin United emerged winners after trashing Alfayo United 5-3 on penalties after a one one draw at regulation time.
Joshua Danmalam, Information Officer SSG’S Office
