Niger State Governor in North Central Nigeria, Alhaji Abubakar Bello has received the Torch of Unity for the 2022 National Sports Festival (NSF) tagged ‘Asaba 2022’.
The Deputy Governor of the State Ahmed Mohammed Ketso, who represented the Governor at the event, gave the assurance that Niger State has already prepared to fully participate in the festival.
“Niger state would not be an exception. I want to assure you that by the special Grace of God Niger team will be in Delta for the 21st sports competition.” added Alhaji Ketso.
The Deputy Governor further said the State would not only participate in the multi-sports event, but will compete favourably for medals, as Niger is known for Handball, Basketball, Hockey and other indoor sports.
Alhaji Ketso who further reiterated the commitment of the state towards sports development, appreciated the Minister of Youth and Sports for choosing Niger State first to receive the Torch of Unity after the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The Zonal Coordinator of the Federal Ministry of Youths and Sports, North Central zone, Mrs. Deborah Pitman, who presented the torch “Say’s the Torch was lighted on Tuesday at the Villa and the next significant state in the North Central after FCT was Niger state”.
Mrs. Deborah who also disclosed that the ministry is planning for the Principal’s cup competition among Secondary schools across the country, urged States in the North Central part of the Country to always encourage grassroots sports in their respective states for sports development in the Country.
The Niger state Commissioner for Youths and Sports Development, Yusuf Suleiman who appreciated the Organizers of the event for choosing Niger State among the first to receive the event torch, said the state has selected 95 athletes to participate in 15 events for the Sports Festival.
“We’ve already organized and arranged our athletes, waiting for the kick-starting of the festival”
Olusola Akintonde
