Gov. Inuwa Yayaha of Gombe State, on Saturday, restated his commitment to harness sports to promote peace and youths development to move the state forward.
Yahaya said this during a visit by the state Olympic Movement Team as part of activities to commemorate the 2023 International Olympic Day.
This year’s Olympic Day theme is: “Let’s Move”, and it aims to prompt people around the world to spare time for daily physical activities.
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Ibrahim Njodi, the governor said his administration would continue to develop sports to engage youths in meaningful ventures.
According to him, sports is being prioritised because it is one of the tools that could be used to foster unity among the diverse people of the state.
“Sports remains the greatest unifying factor, bringing people of all nations devoid of tribe, religion, age, sex or creed together to have a common ground for peace and development,” he said.
The governor assured that his administration would continue to accord pririoty to the sports
He also challenged stakeholders in sports to work closely with government to maximise its benefits and to discover talents in the state.
Earlier, Mr Mohammed Bajoga, Permanent Secretary, the state’s Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, observed that the Olympic Day Run is being marked on June 23, to reflect on the essence of Olympics.
He said the essence of Olympics was to unify the world through sports.
Bajoga commended the governor for his efforts towards youths development and prompt approval of fund which made the celebration successful.
“Sports keep the mind and body strong and healthy, inspire the best out of participants, and above all bring people together in unity”.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event was attended by the Chairman, Gombe Football Association, Mr Yakubu Sarma and Mrs Zainab Adamu, Director of Sports, Gombe State Sports Commission, amongst others. (NAN)
