Nasarawa State Governor, Engr. Abdullahi Sule, has announced his administration’s ambitious plan to build extensive sporting infrastructure across the state in a bid to make Nasarawa the sporting hub of Nigeria.
The Governor revealed this during the opening ceremony of the reintroduced Governor’s Cup Football Tournament, held on September 10, 2024, at the Lafia City Stadium.
Governor Abdullahi Sule emphasized the importance of sports in fostering unity, creating business opportunities, and developing talent within the state.
“My administration is doing everything possible to revamp our sporting infrastructure, construct new ones where there are none,” he said.
“After the rainy season, we will make additional investments in the Lafia City Stadium and build Mini Sports Facilities in at least two or three Local Government Areas.”
The Governor also expressed his excitement over the return of the grassroots football competition, which had been defunct for over thirteen years.
He commended the Nasarawa State Football Association, led by Salisu Galadima ‘Basira’, for its efforts in reviving the tournament.
“Sport is a unifying factor that brings people together, irrespective of age, ethnicity, or religion,” Governor Sule added.
The Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Jafaru Ango, praised the collaboration between the Ministry and the State FA in organizing the tournament, while FA Chairman Salisu Galadima described the tournament’s revival as a personal fulfillment.
The opening match saw Lafia Local Government Area secure a 1-0 victory over Nasarawa Eggon LGA, courtesy of Mahmouda Mohammed’s 58th-minute goal. The tournament, which features several local governments, promises to be a platform for discovering hidden talents, with matches continuing at the Lafia City Stadium.
