BY NONYE JULIET EKWENUGO
Kaduna
Kaduna State Commissioner, Ministry of Sports Development, Prof. Benjamin Kumai Gugong, has expressed confidence that the state will surpass its last performance at the forthcoming National Youth Games.
The commissioner gave the assurance on Tuesday when the executives of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Kaduna State chapter, paid him a courtesy visit in his office.
He said that preparations were in top gear, adding that Governor Uba Sani has been providing the necessary support to ensure the state’s athletes excel.
“Our preparation is going well. Different associations have started selecting the athletes that will represent us, working closely with the Ministry and other critical stakeholders”.
Gugong noted that coaches, sports associations, and the ministry were collaborating to ensure only the best athletes represent the state, stressing that Kaduna would feature in several sporting events.
On the Zonal Elimination stage, the Commissioner said Kaduna has a history of strong performances and assured that the state would do even better this time.
“In all the teams, I am confident Kaduna State will be well represented in the Northwest”.
The commissioner listed facilities such as Murtala Mohammed Square, Ranchers Bees Stadium, and Kaduna State University as potential venues for the Zonal Elimination.
Gugong further revealed that the Ministry was also focusing on providing athletes with adequate training kits, medical checks, and welfare packages to boost morale ahead of the competition.
He commended the role of the media, especially SWAN, in promoting grassroots sports, urging journalists to continue highlighting the achievements and challenges in the sports sector.
Gugong noted that publicity will not only attract more support from the private sector but also inspire young athletes to pursue excellence in their sporting careers.
