Governor Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State has reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to the advancement of grassroots sports.
The governor made this declaration in Gombe on Saturday during the inauguration of the 2024 football season and the issuance of club licenses ahead of the Nationwide League One (NLO) football competition.
Gov. Yahaya explained that sports have been given priority by his administration as a means to empower youths and steer them away from activities that could lead to security challenges.
He reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to harnessing the potential of sports for the benefit of the state’s citizens.
Representing the governor at the event was the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Inuwa Ibrahim. Governor Yahaya highlighted the efforts of his administration to elevate the state’s status through sports development.
“What we are witnessing today is a show of our commitment to sports development at the grassroots.
“ We have paid and secured licences for all the 13 NLO Football clubs here and we will continue to do more.
“Today, Gombe is known for its vast talents in sports and that’s why we have two clubs in the NPFL.
“As part of efforts to continue to support this initiative of sports development, soon we will be organising a football competition that will involve clubs from ward up to state levels,” he said.
He urged the youths to be good ambassadors of the state whenever they are on the pitch. The governor also warned them against acts that could dent the image of the state.
“Avoid unruly behaviours, do not be violent and stay away from using drugs to enhance your performance.
“Doping is a serious offence in sports and it has dire consequences, so avoid it and train well to make your state proud,” he said.
Hashimu Ibrahim, the chairman of the Gombe State chapter of the NLO Football Clubs Forum, commended Gov. Yahaya for his commitment to grassroots sports, particularly by covering the costs associated with securing licenses for the clubs.
Ibrahim urged the state government to maintain its support for Gombe United and Doma United, both of which are currently competing in the NPFL.
