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The Niger State Government has emphasized that its youth are the state’s greatest assets, underscoring the need for deliberate efforts to harness their potential for a better Niger State.
Hon. Mu’azu Hamidu Jantabo, the State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, made this assertion while addressing sports journalists on Friday during a match between Lapai and Bida local governments at the ongoing Governor’s Cup in Lapai town.
He highlighted the state’s abundant youthful population and the government’s commitment to engaging them in positive ventures, with sports being a key focus. The Commissioner noted that sports, particularly football, has evolved from a leisure activity to a lucrative business capable of transforming lives.
“White-collar jobs are no longer as available, making the sports sector a viable area for youth engagement,” he said.
Hon. Jantabo reminisced about the state’s rich sports history and expressed the government’s determination to revive and build on past glories through youth involvement. He revealed that the state government, through his ministry, is the sole sponsor of the Governor’s Cup. However, they are seeking corporate partnerships to further sports development, recognizing that the private sector can significantly drive progress.
The Commissioner also disclosed plans by the current administration, led by Governor Mohammed Umar Bago, to establish state-of-the-art sporting facilities in all three zones of the state to nurture grassroots talent.
“The turnout at match venues is a clear testament to the public’s support for the government’s youth development initiatives through sports,” he observed. “The enthusiasm, energy, and passion displayed here show that people are aligned with our efforts. As a government, we must continue to engage our youth and highlight the importance of their participation in sports.”
This renewed focus on sports aims to empower the youth, foster community spirit, and create opportunities for economic growth and personal development.
Niger State Commissioner for Homeland Security, Gen. Bello Abdullahi Mohammed (rtd), has encouraged the players of Agaie Local Government football team to remain focused and disciplined as they progress to the round of 16 in the ongoing Governor’s Cup in Lapai.
Speaking to sports journalists after Agaie’s impressive 6-1 victory over Magama Local Government team, the highest score recorded in the tournament so far, the Commissioner praised the team’s energy, passion, and motivation. He urged them to maintain these qualities in their upcoming matches.
“If they continue this way, the sky will be the limit for their success. They should remain disciplined and play professionally to ensure everyone is satisfied with their performance,” said Gen. Mohammed.
While he did not attribute the wide-margin victory to his presence, he expressed gratitude to God for the win and hoped it would propel the team towards the trophy. The Commissioner also hinted at a more motivated Agaie team in future matches but kept their strategy under wraps.
Gen. Mohammed pledged continued moral and financial support for the team, providing them with new jerseys and financial assistance. He also rewarded the players and officials of Agaie with ₦20,000 each, and the Man of the Match, Umar Hussaini, received ₦40,000. In a gesture of sportsmanship, he also supported the Magama team with ₦100,000.
