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Restates Nasarawa’s commitment to sports investment, welcoming investors
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From Abel Leonard, Lafia
Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State has confirmed his availability to receive the prestigious Sports Writers’ Association of Nigeria (SWAN) National Merit Sports Award scheduled to hold in Abuja on Friday.
The governor made this known on Tuesday at the Government House, Lafia, during the official unveiling of kits and trophies for the forthcoming Governor’s Cup Football Tournament.
Governor Sule, while expressing appreciation for the recognition by SWAN, described sports as a viable tool for economic growth and youth development.
“Sport is not just for pleasure; sport is now business, the world over,” the governor said. “In Nasarawa State, we are taking sports seriously, and we are beginning to see the impact and rewards for our huge investments in it.”
He highlighted the achievements of the state’s teams, including Nasarawa United and Nasarawa Amazons, noting their recent successes in national competitions.
“Our men’s football team, Nasarawa United, are currently on top of the Nigeria Premier League table. Our female Premier team, Nasarawa Amazons, recently lifted the Governor Douye Diri Maiden Pre-season Cup after beating Bayelsa Queens in Yenagoa. Another team doing the state proud is Basira FC, who play in the second-tier national league. They keep breaking barriers,” he said.
Governor Sule commended all stakeholders contributing to sports development in the state, stressing that the recognition was a reflection of collective efforts.
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“It’s not about me; it’s about you, because you are the main actors — the players, coaches, supporters’ clubs, the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, the State Sports Associations, the media, and other stakeholders,” the governor stated. “What we are doing is our collective effort, and I expect every one of you in Abuja to join me in receiving the award, even if I have to pay for your hotel accommodation.”
He also commended the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Kwanta Yakubu, and the State Football Association Chairman, Salisu Usman Galadima, for their commitment to sports advancement.
Governor Sule reiterated his administration’s readiness to continue providing an enabling environment for investors and partners in sports and other sectors.
“Under my administration, we have successfully hosted and funded several sporting events and seminars in the state, and sponsored our athletes and technical officials for refresher courses both within and outside Nigeria. We will continue to be hospitable to anyone with a genuine intention to partner with us to develop sports and our talents for global recognition,” he assured.
The SWAN National Merit Sports Award, one of the highlights marking the association’s 60th anniversary celebration, will honour Governor Sule for his contributions to sports excellence and socio-economic development through sports initiatives.
According to the national leadership of SWAN, led by Comrade Benjamin Isaiah, the governor’s recognition is “a fitting tribute to his visionary leadership and passion for sports development, which has endeared him to the sports fraternity.”
The two-day anniversary event, featuring lectures, fundraising, investiture, and a novelty football match, begins on Thursday, October 30, at the MKO Abiola National Stadium, Abuja. Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, will serve as the Distinguished Guest of Honour during the award ceremony on Friday, October 31, 2025.
