As part of efforts to reposition the sports sector in Niger state, the state Ministry of Youth and Sports development has inaugurated chairmen and members of 32 sports associations in the state.
Addressing the gathering during the inauguration on Wednesday, at the Abdulsalam Youths Centre in Minna, the state Commissioner for Youth and Sports development, Hon. Yahaya Ibrahim Gulbin-Boka, urged the Chairmen and members of the various associations to embrace their roles with dedication and passion.
He observed that the ministry cannot reposition the sports sector alone, hence the bringing together of people with high integrity and capacity to work together and harness the power of sports to elevate the sporting profile of the state, empower the youths, and foster unity of purpose within our communities.
Hon. Gulbin-Boka observed that the event was a significant milestone in their journey toward fostering a vibrant sports culture in the state, adding that the establishment of the sports associations is key and central to sports administration, development and coordination in the state.
“Today, as we inaugurate these associations we must ensure that sports are accessible to all youths in Niger State, regardless of their background or abilities. This includes creating programs for both able-bodied and naturally challenged athletes,” he stated.
The Commissioner who underscored the importance of physical fitness and mental health through sports, equally stressed the need for regular physical activity which he said was crucial for a healthy lifestyle, and that they were committed to spreading the message widely.
He urged the associations to actively engage local communities by organising tournaments, workshops, and awareness campaigns, adding the spirit of sportsmanship and building stronger bonds among the people can be harnessed through the process.
He asked for the commitment of all stakeholders to making Niger State a beacon of sports excellence in Nigeria.
In their separate goodwill messages, the Chairman house committee on sports, Niger State house of assembly, Hon. Zakari Ndagi Kinbokun, and the state chairman of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Barr. Tanko Beji, observed that Niger state used to home of sports, especially handball, football, basketball, hockey and volleyball, but that this glory is no longer there.
They charged the newly inaugurated chairmen and their members to ensure that commit themselves towards bringing back the lost glory, and also urged youths in the state to embrace sports and better their lives.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr. Nuhu Garba Ngaski, said the event marks a renewed commitment to enhancing sports development in the state.
He challenged all the sporting associations to be proactive by ensuring that the state athletes receive top-notch guidance, mentorship and support through collaborations and partnerships with educational institutions, NGOs, and corporate entities in order to impact positively for a sustainable sports development in Niger state.
“We envisage an elevation in sports development in Niger State, through cultivation of environment where our youth can thrive, dreams can be realized, and our state can shine on the national and global stage,” Ngaski said.
The oath of office was administered on the various sports associations’ Chairmen at the event by Chief Magistrate Balaraba.