Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to grassroots sports development, with a pledge to identify, train and nurture young sporting talents across the state.
Governor Kefas stated this on Saturday when he attended the final of the Jalingo Champions League at the Jolly Nyame Stadium in Jalingo.
The final match of the competition featured ATC FC and Youth Development Agency FC, with the Youth Development Agency FC emerging champions after defeating ATC FC by three goals.
Speaking at the occasion, Governor Agbu Kefas directed the State Sports Commission to establish a committee that will identify football talents across the sixteen Local Government Areas of Taraba State.
The Governor also directed the commission to organize similar competitions across the various Local Government Areas, saying the initiative would provide young footballers with opportunities to showcase their talents and be developed for professional careers.
Governor Agbu Kefas said the winning team of the Jalingo Champions League would form the foundation for the reconstitution of the Taraba State football team.
He announced that the Jolly Nyame Stadium in Jalingo and the Wukari Stadium had been awarded for remodeling and reconstruction, assuring that work would commence soon.
The Governor further disclosed that following the forthcoming sports festival, his administration would establish a sports academy dedicated to identifying, training and developing young sporting talents in the state.
As part of efforts to encourage the players, Governor Kefas announced a donation of five million naira to the participants in recognition of their commitment and performance throughout the competition.
Football enthusiasts, supporters and stakeholders witnessed an exciting final, which showcased the growing talents and passion for football among young people in Taraba State.
At the end of the match, awards and trophies were presented to outstanding players and teams, while Governor Agbu Kefas presented the championship trophy to the victorious Youth Development Agency FC.
Zainab Jalingo ESQ.
HC.MOIR Taraba State.
