From Esther Akaa, Lafia
Team Nasarawa has departed for Jos, Plateau State to participate in the North Central Zonal elimination, ahead of the 2025 National Sports Festival scheduled to hold in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The team, comprising 116 athletes, will compete in various team events, including Football (Men), Basketball (Men and Women), Handball (Men), Hockey (Men and Women) and Volleyball (Men and Women).
The zonal elimination will take place from February 24 to 28, 2025.
Addressing the contingent in Lafia, the newly inaugurated State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon Kwanta Yakubu, charged the team to be good ambassadors of the state and strive for excellence in their respective events.
“I am confident that you all have what it takes to make our state proud at the zonal eliminations.
“Just know that you are not only competing for yourselves, but for the entire State, and His Excellency, Engr Abdullahi Sule, the Executive Governor, who continues to accord premium priority to youth and sports development.
“I urge you therefore to go out there and give it your best by clinching all the available slots available for the North Central zone for team sports events”,
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Yakubu assured the team of the state government’s unwavering support and encouragement, stating that everything necessary for their success had been provided.
“The onus now lies on you to replicate the gestures and benevolence of the government and make us proud,” he added.
Also speaking, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr Ibrahim Alhassan, expressed optimism about the team’s chances, saying, “We are very optimistic that this team is competent and ready to battle and come out on top.”
Speaking on behalf of the Contingent, Coach Sani Mohammed who doubles as the National U-21 Volleyball Coach and Captain of the state’s basketball team, Modupe Omojola, assured the state government of bringing glory to the state.
“We are more than determined to make our state proud as we will work hard, play with passion, and give our all to ensure that we come out on top,” Omojola said.
The top two teams from the zonal elimination will advance to represent the North Central Zone at the main National Sports Festival competition in Abeokuta, Ogun State, starting from 16th- 30th May 2025.
The state contingent includes 116 athletes, 16 coaches, five secretaries, seven accompanying officials, and 28 state delegates.