The North-East Development Commission (NEDC) Secondary School Sports Tournament has officially commenced in Gombe, with a strong call to embrace sports as a tool for national integration.
“We encourage this activity so our youth can understand the importance of unity, not only within the Northeast but across the nation,” said Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya while declaring the event open at Pantami Township Stadium. His message was delivered by Deputy Governor Manasseh Daniel Jatau.
Governor Yahaya emphasized the vital role of sports in fostering unity within the Northeast region and across Nigeria. He directed the ministries of special duties, youth, and education to ensure that the tournament becomes an annual event, suggesting it could help resolve misunderstandings and build stronger bonds among participants.
Speaking directly to the athletes, the governor urged them to embrace the tournament’s true spirit, which is unity. “In this event, there are no winners or losers. Being selected to represent your region is already a great achievement,” he said.
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The Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Adamu Inuwa Ibrahim, also addressed the participants, encouraging them to seize the opportunity to build relationships with athletes from different senatorial zones. He urged all participants to engage positively with one another.
The three-day event features 162 male athletes, 75 female athletes, and 27 game masters, competing in various sports, including basketball, lawn tennis, table tennis, football, and athletics.
The tournament, which provides participants with essential supplies such as sports kits, meals, and accommodation, will conclude on Thursday, October 24, before the grand finale in Bauchi. Winners will be awarded scholarships, providing further motivation for the athletes to excel, courtesy of the NEDC.
