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Nasarawa State Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, Lafia (2026)

19/08/2026

NASARAWA STATE DEPUTY GOVERNOR INSPECTS LAFIA CITY STADIUM RENOVATION, CONGRATULATES YOUTH ON INTERNATIONAL YOUTH DAY CELEBRATION.

Nasarawa State Deputy Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Agbadu Akabe, on Tuesday, inspected the ongoing renovation works at the Lafia City Stadium, where the playing turf is being replaced ahead of the kick-off of the 2026/27 Nigeria Football Season.

The Deputy Governor's visit focused on the quality and timeline of the new turf installation.

Received on ground by the State's Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development and Coordinating Commissioner for the Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport, Hon. Kwanta Yakubu, alongside Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, Dr. Stephen Iliya Sasetu, and Director of Facilities and Stadia Management, Ahmad Yusuf, Akabe said he was impressed with the progress of work, assuring that the facility will meet league standards and be ready to host matches at the commencement of the new football league campaign.

Speaking earlier, the Chief Executive Officer of Alansmith Nigeria Limited, the Company contracted to execute the project, Joshua Adamu, stated that the installation of long lasting, quality hybrid turf will commence before the end of this week, assuring that the task will be completed before the commencement of the 2026/27 NPFL Season.

He disclosed that materials for the field are available and will be transported to Lafia on Thursday this week.

Nasarawa United will kickstart their first home game of the new campaign against Bendel Insurance of Benin on 6th September, 2026, after returning from their match-day one clash versus Barau FC in Kano on 30th August, 2026.

The Solid Miners finished 6th overall on the final table of the 2025/26 twenty-team Nigeria Premier Football League campaign, but look set to outperform that position this coming season.

Shortly after the inspection visit, the Commissioner, Kwanta Yakubu, led the Deputy Governor, Dr. Akabe, to join hundreds of youth of the State on a road walk sensitization facilitated by the Society for Family Health, to commemorate this year's International Youth Day Celebration.

Addressing the participants, comprising mostly youth groups from across the State under the umbrella of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, NYCN, the Deputy Governor congratulated them on the occasion of the anniversary celebration, urging them to embrace healthy lifestyles, stressing that "a healthy youth population is the bedrock of a wealthy nation."

He stated that Governor Abdullahi Sule and the Nasarawa State Government would continue to provide enabling environments to support young people in achieving their set goals.

Speaking earlier, the Commissioner, Kwanta Yakubu, said the twin engagements underscored the State Government's commitment to sports development and youth empowerment as key drivers of growth.

Activities marking this year's celebration of the International Youth Day in the State will climax on Thursday, 20th August, 2026, at the Conference Hall of the Ministry of Local Government, Community Development and Chieftaincy Affairs, Lafia, by 10am, with the Commissioner, Kwanta Yakubu, designated to represent Governor Abdullahi Sule, at the function.

12th of every August is set aside to mark the International Youth Day around the globe.

Eche Amos FCBS, ANIPR,
Head of Public Relations,
Nasarawa State Ministry of Youth and Sports Development.

18/08/2026.

18/08/2026

Nasarawa State Government Cautions Youth Against Violence...PIlot Newspaper Reports

11/08/2026

GUSAU/AHLAN PRE-SEASON TOURNEY: NASARAWA UNITED KICK OFF GROUP C CAMPAIGN TODAY AGAINST KANO PILLARS.

*..._State Government Rallies Support Behind Team Ahead Of New Football League Season_*

The Solid Miners, as Nasarawa United are nicknamed, will begin their first match of Group C against Kano Pillars at the ongoing 5th Gusau/Ahlan Preseason Football Tournament holding at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium, Katsina, by 4pm today.

Also paired alongside Darazo Academy, and Discovery Talented FC of Kebbi State, today's match will prove how long Nasarawa United will go in the same tournament they won in 2019 in Kano State, after pipping El-Kanemi Warriors of Maiduguri 1-0 at the Sani Abacha Stadium to lift the trophy.

Technical Adviser, Mangut Mbwas, prior to the team's take off to Katsina from Lafia, the Nasarawa State Capital, yesterday, said the Pre-Season Tournament is the first true examination of a squad meticulously re-tooled during the off-season as it will serve as an opportunity for the players to translate weeks of conditioning, tactical drills and internal competition into performance.

Mangut told the Club's Media that his side will approach today's game with intent, not experimentation alone.

"Yes, it's our first match in the Preseason tournament. However, we have used the weeks of preparation to build identity, fitness and cohesion.

"Later today, we want to set the tone. This tournament is our laboratory, but we will compete to win.

"We missed three opportunities last season - we didn't win the league. We didn't qualify for the continent, and we didn't win the FA Cup, and that bothers us and our darling supporters a lot.

"This new Football League season, every minute must have meaning, and that starts from our game today against Kano Pillars in the Gusau/Ahlan Preseason Tournament", remarked Mangut.

Speaking earlier, the Club's Chairman, Solomon Babanjah, represented by the Team Manager, Adamu Musa Galle, echoed the Coach's sentiment, emphasizing mentality and structure.

"The players understand the standard required at this level.

"The Gusau/Ahlan Preseason tournament will test our depth and our resolve.

"We are going there to build rhythm, to assess combinations, and to leave the tournament sharper than we are coming in."

He confirmed that Nasarawa United will soon unveil a blend of newly acquired high-profile signings and a handful of academy graduates after their impressive Pre-Season form, to augment the established first-team regulars.

The Chairman appreciated Governor Abdullahi Sule, and the State Government, through the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, for their sustained support to the team and its members, pledging to reward the gestures this term.

Team Captain, King Osanga MON, assured the Club's teeming supporters and fans of a rewarding season, appealing for continuous support and prayers.

In his farewell message to the team, the State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Kwanta Yakubu, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Stephen Iliya Sasetu, congratulated the team for their efforts in the past season, and urged them to always represent the values of discipline, hard work and excellence that the State and its people are known for, while aspiring for success this coming term in the league.

He noted that the Preseason tournament is an early barometer for how the Club will cope with the demands of the upcoming NPFL campaign.

While assuring of the full support of the Ministry and State Government to the welfare and progress of Nasarawa United and its members, the Commissioner added that plans are already in top gear to replace the turf at the Lafia City Stadium, home ground of the Solid Miners and Nasarawa Amazons, before the commencement of the new football campaign.

"Nasarawa United is a club that has history, and passionate about what it does. We enter every season with a determination to win, at least, a laurel, and I strongly believe this season won't be different, except where we have to achieve positive, and tangible results where we couldn't last term.

"I am glad with what I have heard from your officials and captain.

"Let me assure you that the Governor is ready to do everything possible to ensure you are not only comfortable, but achieve success. The Governor has demonstrated this spirit over and again to you and the team, and He will do more as the season progresses.

"As a Ministry, rest assured that whatsoever is meant for you will be given to you outrightly. We will also be timely in our push to enable you meet you tasks.

"We wish you a successful journey to Katsina and back home, and a successful football season", the Commissioner prayed.

Nasarawa United ended the 2025/26 Nigeria Premier League season 6th overall on the 20-team league table with 56 points, and failed to qualify for the final of this year's Men's President Federation's Cup after losing via penalty shootouts to Ikorodu City FC of Lagos in the Semi-Final stage.

The Solid Miners will kickstart their first league match of the 2026/27 season against Barau FC in Kano on Sunday, 30th August, 2026, by 4pm.

Eche Amos FCBS, ANIPR,
Director of Media,
Nasarawa United FC.

11/08/2026

07/08/2026

GOVERNOR SULE DECLARES 2026 BATCH B STREAM TWO NYSC ORIENTATION COURSE OPEN, REAFFIRMS SAFE ENVIRONMENT.

Nasarawa State Governor, Engr. Abdullahi Sule, has reiterated the commitment of his administration to the safety and welfare of prospective Corps Members deployed to the State for their mandatory one year National Youth Service programme.

The Governor made this known on Friday when he declared open the 2026 NYSC Batch B, Stream 11 Orientation Course for prospective Corps Members posted to the State at the Magaji Dan Yamusa Permanent NYSC Orientation Camp, in Keffi.

Represented by the State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development and Chairman of the NYSC Governing Board in the State, Hon. Kwanta Yakubu, Governor Sule congratulated the prospective Corps Members on the successful completion of their academic pursuit and swearing-in ceremony to serve their fatherland in line with the mandate of the NYSC Scheme.

"This Orientation Course is deliberately designed to equip you with the requisite skills that will enable you to face the seeming herculean tasks during and after the camping exercise.

"This is actually intended to acquaint you with the culture, values and traditions of the people to enable you integrate freely with your host communities.

"I urge you to exhibit due diligence by contributing your quota to the overall development of our society.

"My administration places high premium on hard work and meritorious service, and rewards same. We have sustained our commitment to support Corps Members who distinguish themselves in the service to our nation.

"Let me reiterate that any Corps Member that Initiates project or programme that will touch the lives of the people of a particular community in the State will be rewarded accordingly.

"Rest assured of my administration's commitment to continue to improve and sustain the welfare of Corps Members in the State, one of which is the construction of a new multipurpose hall here at the Orientation Camp, in addition to other interventions that Government continues to accord to the NYSC in the State.

"I assure you of our continued partnership to ensure a hitch-free camping exercise.

"I enjoin you to shun all forms of vices and participate actively in skills acquisition and entrepreneurship training that will prepare you for economic development and self-reliance, including taking advantage of the State's Wing Commander Abdullahi Ibrahim Vocational and Skills Acquisition Institute, Lafia, to learn newer and profitable skills."

Earlier, the State Coordinator of the NYSC, Mrs. Salamatu Abdulrahman Muhammad, said a total of 2,492 prospective Corps Members, comprising 981 males and 1,511 females were successfully registered for the 2026 Batch B, Stream Two Orientation Course.

She noted that the Orientation Course is a routine exercise of the Scheme designed to acquaint prospective Corps Members with the values and objectives of the NYSC, aimed at fostering unity, cultural understanding and a deep sense of patriotism.

The State Coordinator added that the Course is also aimed at igniting the physical and mental training, discipline, and inculcation of the spirit of collective responsibility.

She emphasized the importance of adhering to Camp rules, respect for constituted authorities and active participation in all activities of the Scheme, urging the participants to take advantage of the opportunity for personal and collective development that the Course provides.

Mrs. Salamatu appreciated Governor Abdullahi Sule and the Nasarawa State Government for the continuous supports and provision of a conducive working environment for the Scheme to thrive, particularly the construction of a multi-purpose hall which has reached appreciable level.

She assured of sustaining the collaboration between the NYSC and the State Government as well as relevant and collaborative stakeholders for the mutual benefits of all.

The Pledge and Oath of Allegiance to the prospective Corps Members were administered by the Chief Judge of Nasarawa State, Hon. Justice Aisha Mohammed Usman, ably represented by Hon. Justice Abdullahi Sham Shama.

Notable dignitaries present at the ceremony were Dr. Stephen Iliya Sasetu, Permanent Secretary, Nasarawa State Ministry of Youth and Sports Development as well as Directors and Senior Officials of the Ministry, Special Adviser to Governor Abdullahi Sule on Humanitarian Services; Senior Special Assistants to Governor Abdullahi Sule on Sports Affairs, Comrade Hamza Ibrahim Moyi, and Youth Development, Hon. Larai Makpu; Secretary of Karu Local Government Area, Dr. Abraham Habu Ekpo; Heads of Collaborating Federal and State Agencies and Institutions, among others.

Highpoints of the event were thug of war and other in-camp activities.

Eche Amos - FCBS, ANIPR,
Head of Public Relations,
Nasarawa State Ministry of Youth and Sports Development.

07/08/2026

07/08/2026

YOUTH AND SPORTS PERM SEC, STEPHEN, ATTENDS SWAN'S 2ND ANNIVERSARY CEREMONY, PLEDGES MINISTRY'S TOTAL SUPPORT.

*...Charges Members To Uphold Excellence, Commends Ministry's Head of Public Relations For Shaping Sports Narrative.*

The Permanent Secretary, Nasarawa State Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, Dr. Stephen Iliya Sasetu, on Wednesday, represented the Commissioner for the Ministry, Hon. Kwanta Yakubu, at the 2nd anniversary celebration of the leadership of the Sports Writers' Association of Nigeria, SWAN, Nasarawa State Chapter, held at the NUJ Press Centre, in Lafia.

At the event, Stephen reaffirmed the Ministry's commitment to partnering with SWAN to advance sports development in Nasarawa State.

The Permanent Secretary described sports journalists as "critical custodians of the truth and architects of perception" whose reportage shapes public opinion and inspires the next generation of athletes.

"It's a privilege to be a part of this celebration. I thank the SWAN Chairman for extending invitation to me.

"On behalf of the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, let me felicitate with SWAN, Nasarawa State Chapter, on your 2nd anniversary celebration.

"Two years of dedicated service and promoting sports development is no mean feat.

"What you do directly affects my ministry. Let me thank you for your responsible, objective and professional sports journalism.

"Sports writers play a vital role in shaping public perception, celebrating our athletes, documenting our achievements and inspiring the next generation of sports men and women and stakeholders.

"Your contributions have helped to showcase the immense potential of sports in our State, and have complimented the efforts of Government in developing the sector.

"Sport is one of the leading job employers in the world today.

"As a Ministry, we are working tirelessly to revive the defunct Nasarawa State Sports Festival which was last held in 2003. Once we have firmed up all arrangements, we would invite SWAN to unveil the plans we have for the State in that regards."

"On behalf of the Commissioner, and entire Ministry, let me pledge our total support to the leadership of SWAN in the State, and the Association.

"We see you not just as reporters, but as key stakeholders and partners in progress.

"We will continue to work with you to achieve our mutual goals", the Permanent Secretary remarked.

He charged members of the Association to continue to raise the bar of professionalism, embrace fact-based solution-driven journalism that will add value to policy formulation and talent development.

"So, let's remain focused to ethical journalism and constructive partnerships, enmeshed with the promotion of unity and excellence through sports reporting."

Stephen commended the Ministry's Head of Public Relations, Eche Amos, for his exemplary professionalism and transformational impact, describing him as a highly respected sports journalist in Nigeria and beyond.

He noted that Eche Amos has been instrumental in redefining the Ministry's communication strategy, deepening media relations, and ensuring that the achievements of Nasarawa State in sports receive the visibility they deserve both locally and internationally.

"Thank you for giving us one of your very best in this profession, Mr. Eche Amos, as our Head of Public Relations. He is a respected journalist who has continued to contribute immensely to the growth and development of the Ministry, Nasarawa State, and Nigeria as a whole."

Earlier, Chairman of SWAN, Nasarawa State Chapter, Comrade Smah George, expressed gratitude to the Permanent Secretary and Ministry of Youth and Sports Development for its consistent support and for identifying with the Association's anniversary.

He pledged that SWAN in the State would remain committed to ethical journalism, capacity building, and the promotion of professional and grassroots sports.

Goodwill messages were delivered by retired Deputy Director of Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, Dr. Musa Abdullahi, who was the pioneer chairman of SWAN in Nasarawa State; former General Manager of Nasarawa Broadcasting Service and 3rd Chairman of SWAN in the State, Comrade Aloko Flashman; General Manager of Nasarawa Broadcasting Service, Madam Patricia Akawu; former SWAN Vice President, North Central Zone, Danmusa Mohammed; Secretary of Nigeria Union of Journalists, Nasarawa State Chapter, Comrade Ibrahim Dauda; retired Director at Nasarawa Broadcasting Service, Mr. Alfred Akwe; and Head of Public Relations, Nasarawa State Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, Mr. Eche Amos.

The event featured lecture on Teqball, its rules and regulations, as members participated in practical session of the game of Teqball.

Eche Amos - FCBS, ANIPR,
Head of Public Relations,
Nasarawa State Ministry of Youth and Sports Development.

05/08/2026

05/08/2026

COMMISSIONER, KWANTA, RECEIVES FEDERAL UNIVERSITY OF LAFIA SPORTS DELEGATION, HARPS ON NASARAWA STATE'S SUPPORT FOR NUGA ZONAL PRELIMINARIES.

The Nasarawa State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Kwanta Yakubu, today, received a delegation from the Federal University of Lafia in a strategic engagement geared toward hosting the next North Central Zonal Eliminations of the National Universities' Games Association, Pre-NUGA.

The Commissioner, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Stephen Iliya Sasetu, commended FULafia for its track record of excellence and for being found worthy to host the prestigious competition.

"I thank you for honouring the relationship between our Ministry and your institution. Beyond this relationship, I believe we have a lot we can do to help our youth to become viable in the society", the Permanent Secretary began.

He described sports as a veritable instrument for youth empowerment, unity, and state branding, and reaffirmed the Ministry's readiness to strengthen the partnership with the University to deliver a seamless tournament.

"On behalf of the Commissioner and Ministry, let me assure you that we are very much interested in supporting the FULafia in every way that we can to enable you host a successful event.

"Our facilities are readily available for use, and any other support required of us, as long as it is within our powers, rest assured that we will do that for you.

"We have a Commissioner that is willing to support whatever will bring value to the State; just know that your message here has already gone to him, and he will do the needful as always", Sasetu added.

The Permanent Secretary also stated that the Ministry would work in tandem with the FULafia Local Organizing Committee to provide technical and professional supports during the Preliminaries.

Earlier, leader of the delegation and Provost, College of Post-Graduate Studies, FULafia, Professor Samson Victor Dugga, representing the Vice Chancellor of FULafia, expressed appreciation for the Ministry's and State's consistent commitment to youth and sports development, particularly to the University community, where the State Government, through the Ministry, provided funds and sports equipment to the University to participate at the last edition of the NUGA tournament in Jos, Plateau State.

"We are here to register our profound appreciation for the assistance and supports that the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development has been giving to the University community, especially your support during our pre-NUGA activities in Makurdi, that culminated in our participation in the NUGA tournament held in Jos, Plateau State, where we won some medals.

"Wherever we go, we are identified with Nasarawa State. And we are looking for opportunities to showcase our potentials, so, our colleagues have requested that FULafia should host the next Pre-NUGA Preliminaries ahead of the NUGA competition to be hosted by Calabar, Cross-River State later in the year.

"NSUK, and Benue State University have all hosted the Pre-NUGA competition, now we have been saddled with the task of hosting the next Preliminaries.

"However, we are a young university, still struggling with both infrastructure and funds. Knowing that we have the support of the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development and the Nasarawa State Government, we felt we should come to you for assistance.

"We have enjoyed some beautiful synergies, like athletes' exchange and use of each other's facilities for some sporting activities. We kindly request your support during this period that we are now to enable us host a successful event, as we welcome universities from across the North Central Zone next month", Professor Dugga pleaded.

He noted that hosting the NUGA Zonal Preliminaries presents a unique opportunity to project the State's sporting potential, foster inter-university relationships, and identify budding talents for national and international engagements.

The leader of delegation who was joined by the Director of Sports, FULafia, Dr. Isa Mohammed Ozegya, Coach, FULafia, Auta Williamson, and Head of Sports Administration, Yusif Suleiman, expressed confidence that with the support of the Nasarawa State Government, the FULafia would not only host a successful preliminary competition but also set a new benchmark for the organization of university sports in Nigeria.

The NUGA Zonal preliminary competition serves as the qualifying stage for Universities within the Zone ahead of the National finals in November, this year.

The preliminary competition is expected to attract hundreds of athletes, officials and spectators, with significant benefits for hospitality, transport, and commerce within Nasarawa State.

Eche Amos - Fellow CBS/ANIPR,
Head of Public Relations,
Nasarawa State Ministry of Youth and Sports Development.

05/08/2026

04/08/2026

NASARAWA UNITED, STATE FA IN STRATEGIC PARLEY WITH COMMISSIONER FOR YOUTH AND SPORTS DEVELOPMENT, KWANTA, AHEAD OF 2026/27 NPFL SEASON.

*...._Commissioner Passes Vote Of Confidence On NUFC and FA Boards, Pledges Massive Backing_*

In a high-level strategic engagement aimed at repositioning Nasarawa State for dominant outing in the 2026/27 Football League Season in Nigeria, the Management of Nasarawa United FC and the Executive of the State Football Association today, Tuesday, interfaced with the Nasarawa State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Kwanta Yakubu.

The meeting, held at the Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport, Lafia, also brought into focus Honourable Kwanta's dual mandate as the supervising authority coordinating the Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport.

The cross-sector interface was convened at the Ministry of Works, to align sporting ambition with infrastructural and logistical support ahead of the new league campaign.

In his remarks, the Commissioner congratulated members of the Board of Nasarawa United FC as the most passionate , focused, committed and peaceful leadership, despite comprising of young individuals.

"I am honoured to receive this high-powered sport delegation here in my office to congratulate and felicitate with me on my recent appointment to oversee the Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport by my Principal, the Executive Governor of Nasarawa State, Engr. Abdullahi Sule.

"Let me say, in the history of Sports Administration in the State, there has not been a Club Management that's as peaceful as the current Board Members led by Mr. Solomon Babanjah.

"I see the passion, the unity, the love, and sincerity of purpose among Members of the Board concerning Nasarawa United. You have been consistent and focused, despite hues from some quarters to rejig the Board, which after our reviews, it is not necessary to disband the Board of the club which is already succeeding.

"Nasarawa United would have finished on the table better than where they ended last season, if not for some hitches, but I believe we can do better, going forward.

"I'm happy to identify with you. And thank you for all your support to me and the administration of Governor Abdullahi Sule.

"Equally, too, I am proud of the Board of the State Football Association under the leadership of Salisu Usman Galadima 'Basira'.

"The FA Chairman has shown capacity, and made the Association attractive and result-driven", Kwanta stated.

The Commissioner thereafter passed a resounding vote of confidence on both the Board of Nasarawa United FC and the State Football Association Board, for their huge contributions to football development in the State.

"I have followed your stewardship closely. Your commitment to discipline, passion, football development and professional administration, I must say, these give us every reason to believe that Nasarawa State will not only compete, but contend in the 2026/27 football season in Nigeria.

"On behalf of the State Government, I hereby pass a vote of confidence in your leaderships. We will match that confidence with the enabling environment by providing all the necessary things to ensure you succeed in your set goals, including sport infrastructure", he added.

The Commissioner disclosed that Governor Abdullahi Sule had approved funds for the commencement of works at the five approved mini sports complexes in Doma, Wamba, Kokona, Keffi, and Toto Local Government Areas, assuring that the groundbreaking ceremony would commence in the coming weeks.

He further stated the replacement of the playing turf at the Lafia City Stadium to meet the required standard will take effect soon.

Earlier, Chairman of Nasarawa United FC and leader of the visiting delegation, Solomon Babanjah, told the Commissioner that they were in his office to congratulate him on his recent appointment to supervise the Works, Housing and Transport Ministry, inform him about preparations for the upcoming football season, and to seek his support to enable the State's Premier League Club and FA Succeed.

Delivering the vote-of-thanks, Chairman of the State Football Association, Salisu Usman Galadima, commended the Commissioner for engineering talent and sports development in the State.

He credited Kwanta Yakubu as the best Commissioner he has worked with, assuring him of his unalloyed support at all times.

While acknowledging that there were skirmishes in the past, Galadima promised to work assiduously with the leadership of the Youth and Sports Commissioner, and will leave no stone unturned to ensure the State's Professional teams win laurels and secure continental tickets next season.

Also in attendance at the meeting was the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Abdullahi Sule on Sports Affairs, Comrade Hamza Moyi.

Eche Amos - FCBS, ANIPR,
Director of Media,
Nasarawa United FC.

04/08/2026

04/08/2026

YOUTH AND SPORTS PERMANENT SECRETARY, STEPHEN, RECEIVES NASARAWA STATE'S CHESS TEAM, COMMENDS RESOLUTE DISPLAY OF INTELLECT AND CHARACTER AT NORTH CENTRAL ZONAL CLASSICAL CHESS TOURNEY.

The Permanent Secretary, Nasarawa State Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, Dr. Stephen Iliya Sasetu, on Monday, at his office in Lafia, received in audience the contingent of athletes who represented the State at the recently concluded NCF North Central Zonal monthly intermediate Classical Chess Tournament held in Abuja last month.

The Permanent Secretary who welcomed the contingent, lauded the performance of the State's young athletes and their coach, describing it as a breakthrough outing, despite the team returning without winning any medals or getting official rating points.

Stephen said the team's conduct and composure on the board had projected Nasarawa State in a new light as an emerging hub for intellectual sports.

He noted that the Championship, which assembled some of the Zone's most rated and experienced players, served as a critical exposure platform for the State's budding talents.

According to the Permanent Secretary, the experience garnered will form the foundation for a more structured and result-driven chess development programme within Nasarawa State, with special focus on infrastructure development and equipment procurement to put the athletes at par with their counterparts in other climes.

Stephen commended the Honourable Commissioner for the Ministry, Kwanta Yakubu, for following up on the memo that led to the approval and subsequent release of funds to enable the contingent participate in the tournament.

He appreciated Governor Abdullahi Sule for his swift approval of the request and making funds available for the State's contingent to feature at the championship, stressing that the Governor's commitment to talent and sports development continues to inspire stakeholders to aspire for glory and success in the sports ecosystem.

Also lending their voices, Director of Sports Organizing, Mallam Uba Musa, and his counterpart at the Department of Technical and Coaching, Mustafa Sani Bello, congratulated the contingent for their successful outing, and stressed the sustained support of the Ministry to athletes and coaches' welfare as preparations intensify for the forthcoming National Youth Games in Asaba, Delta State, and National Sports Festival in Enugu, later in the year.

The State's Chess coach, Blessing Katman, in her remarks, described the championship as "an invaluable learning curve, as several of the State's players recorded draws and near-upsets against higher-rated opponents, earning them commendations from tournament arbiters and resilience under pressure".

Captain of the contingent, Dominic Andey Yakubu, expressed appreciation to Governor Abdullahi Sule for facilitating their participation, and the Ministry for its support, as he pledged that the lessons learnt from the Championship would translate into improved performance at subsequent national and regional competitions.

The athletes who participated at the Championship from Nasarawa State include; Salihu Fatima, Daniel Stephen, Yakubu Kande, Yakubu Dominic, Ogah Ali Yakubu, Philip Kenneth, Jerome Jason, Banda Elora, Inusa Rukaya, Paul Victoria, and Emmanuel Solomon.

Forty players from across States and Clubs in the North Central Zone participated at the Championship.

Eche Amos - FCBS, ANIPR,
Head of Public Relations,
Nasarawa State Ministry of Youth and Sports Development.

04/08/2026

Nasarawa State Ministry of Youth and Sports Development

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