Governor Sule approves five mini-sports complexes across Nasarawa

From Abel Leonard, Lafia

Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa state has approved the immediate construction of five mini sports complexes across Nasarawa State as part of efforts to promote grassroots sports development and discover young football talents.

The governor announced the approval on Friday during the grand finale of the maiden Matawalle Empowerment and Development Foundation Grassroots Football Tournament held at the Pilot Primary School Football Pitch in Toto Local Government Area to commemorate the 53rd birthday of the Secretary to the Nasarawa State Government (SSG), Barrister Labaran Shuaibu Magaji (SAN).

Sule said the sports facilities would be constructed in Toto, Keffi, Garaku in Kokona Local Government Area, Wamba and Doma, fulfilling an earlier commitment by his administration to expand sporting infrastructure across the state.

The governor said the exceptional display by the two finalist teams, despite the poor condition of the playing pitch, convinced him to immediately approve the projects.

“In spite of the condition of this pitch both teams displayed exceptional talent. I know if we give them the Lafia City Stadium, they will do far better.

“I feel bad about the condition of this pitch, and seeing how passionate the people of Toto are about football, it will be a shame if we do not have a mini stadium here. I will approve the contracts for the construction of five mini sports stadiums in Toto, Garaku, Doma, Wamba and Keffi,” Sule said.

He explained that although the projects had already been planned, the massive turnout at the tournament compelled his administration to release funds for their execution.

The governor noted that the facilities would serve as centres for grassroots sports development and talent discovery, expressing optimism that the proposed Toto Mini Sports Complex could in future host football matches because of the community’s passion for the game.

Sule also rewarded participants in the tournament with cash donations totalling N10 million. Champions, Elephants FC, received N5 million, while runners-up, Ugya United FC, got N3 million. Match officials and members of the organising committee received N1 million each.

Elephants FC emerged champions after defeating Ugya United FC 4-2 on penalties following a goalless draw in regulation time. Talba United had earlier defeated Kuru United 1-0 to claim third place.

Senator Ahmed Aliyu Wadada, representing Nasarawa West Senatorial District, also donated N500,000 each to the two finalist teams.