The Special Adviser to the Sokoto State Governor on Rural Roads Development, Malami Galadanchi, has identified sports as a vital tool for promoting national unity, youth development, and socio-economic growth in Nigeria.
Galadanchi made the assertion shortly after the final match of the Old Timers football competition between Shagari United and Gwandu United in the state.
He said the competition was part of the activities organised to commemorate the third anniversary of Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s administration.
Galadanchi stressed that sporting activities provide a platform for bringing people together regardless of ethnic, religious, or political differences.
He noted that sports promote teamwork, discipline, tolerance, and mutual understanding among citizens, while also serving as a vehicle for discovering and nurturing young talents.
He reaffirmed the commitment of Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s administration to investing in sports to improve athletic performance, create employment opportunities, and reduce social vices among youths.
According to him, sporting competitions at the local, state, and national levels continue to strengthen bonds among Nigerians by encouraging healthy interactions and promoting a sense of belonging.
He thanked all the Old Timers teams that participated in the competition for honouring the invitation and contributing to its success.
Increased Investment in Sports
Also speaking, the Chairman Technical Committee of the competition, Aminu Muhammad, called on governments at all levels, private organisations, and development partners to increase support for sports development, describing the sector as a strategic avenue for national integration and economic advancement.
He urged schools and communities to revive sporting activities and competitions to help identify talents early and provide young people with constructive opportunities for personal growth.
He maintained that with adequate funding, effective policies, and sustained commitment, sports could play an even greater role in fostering peace, unity, and development across the country.
Old Footballers Reunion
The players who participated at the tournament, expressed appreciation to the Special Adviser for organising the competition, which reunited old footballers who had not met for over 40 years.
They also called on the state and federal governments to continue harnessing Nigeria’s rich pool of sporting talent to strengthen national cohesion and enhance the country’s image on the global stage.
The Old Timers clubs that participated in the competition included NEPA United, Customs United, Shagari United, Gwandu United, Golden Arrow Gusau, and Kanta Warriors Argungu.
Gwandu United emerged champions and received a cash prize of ₦500,000 along with the tournament trophy, while each of the other five participating teams also received ₦500,000.
