Sec. Schools Sports Tournament 2024: Gov Kefas Hails NEDC, Reaffirms Commitment To Sports Development
By Rimamsikwe Nungtso Ruth
Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas commended the North-East Development Commission (NEDC) on Tuesday for its commitment to youth empowerment and talent development in the region.
He made this commendation during the opening ceremony of the first edition of the secondary school sports tournament organized by the NEDC, which took place at the Jolly Nyame Stadium in Jalingo.
Represented by the Commissioner of Education, Dr. Augustina Godwin, Governor Kefas reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to youth empowerment, particularly in education and sports.
He highlighted the significance of the event as a valuable opportunity to celebrate the connection between education and sports in the state.
Kefas explained that the initiative aims to foster unity and friendly competition among the youth in various communities while providing them with a platform to showcase their exceptional talents.
The tournament brought together local governments from the three senatorial districts of the state: the Southern Zone, Northern Zone, and Central Zone.
The governor noted that these games are not only meant to be enjoyable and competitive but also serve as a platform to identify young athletes with the potential to represent the state and the nation at national and international levels.
He emphasized that investing in budding talents at the secondary school level lays a strong foundation for a brighter future in sports.
Kefas pointed out that the free and compulsory education policy demonstrates his administration’s commitment to the “Moving Forward” mantra.
Additionally, Governor Agbu Kefas appreciated the State Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, led by Amb. Joseph Joshua, for their collaboration in making the event a reality.
In his address, Amb. Joshua described the tournament as crucial for harnessing the talents of the youth in the state, revealing that Governor Kefas intends to revive all sporting activities in Taraba State soon.
Amb. Joshua praised the NEDC for its commendable efforts toward unity and sports development.
He appealed for increased sponsorship for sporting and youth activities in Taraba State.
He further encouraged the athletes to give their best during the tournament while maintaining a high spirit of sportsmanship.
Earlier in her opening remarks, the State Commissioner of Education, Dr. Augustina Godwin, stated that the government is determined to provide youth with the platforms and resources necessary to fully realize their potential.
She reiterated the current administration’s commitment to advancing both sports and education, aiming to make Taraba State a model of opportunity that other states can emulate.
Dr. Godwin urged the athletes to exhibit discipline, respect, and sportsmanship throughout the competition, reminding them that the essence of sports transcends mere victory and lies in how they conduct themselves both on and off the field.
She expressed gratitude to the governor for his relentless support and passion for both sports and education, acknowledging the Nigeria School Sports Federation (NSSF) for its support over the years.
Representing the NEDC, Alhaji Sani Haruna conveyed the commission’s primary focus on promoting sports as a tool for empowerment, with an emphasis on peace, reconciliation, security, health, education, gender, and inclusivity.
He noted that the tournament also serves as a means to identify talented individuals for further development.
Alhaji Haruna expressed appreciation for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s dynamic leadership and support for the northeast region, as well as gratitude to Governor Agbu Kefas for his commitment to youth empowerment and sports development in the state.
In his keynote address, Dr. Sam Timothy, the Consultant and Managing Director of Skeb Sport and Event Resources Ltd, shared that the organization is dedicated to professional sports management and related services.
He commended the Federal Government and legislators for establishing the NEDC, recognizing the significant humanitarian interventions made by the commission in the region and its efforts to promote unity and progress.
Our Correspondent reports that the sporting events featured include football, table tennis, basketball, athletics, and lawn tennis.
