By Abel Leonard, Lafia
The Nasarawa State Government has officially opened its training camp for athletes in preparation for the 2025 National Youth Festival scheduled to take place in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The state’s contingent will compete in various events including Judo, Karate, Chess, Scrabble, Darts, Volleyball, Hockey, Taekwondo, and Athletics.
Declaring the camp open on Tuesday, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Kwanta Yakubu, charged the athletes to maintain discipline and focus as they prepare for the national outing.
“I want you to conduct yourselves, organise yourselves, and adhere strictly to the rules that guide the camp,” Yakubu said. “Your coaches will be relaying directives from the ministry, and additional instructors will come in to further guide and organise you so that we can win more medals than ever, by the grace of God.”
He expressed gratitude to Governor Abdullahi Sule for approving the state’s participation and training initiative, while also commending the dedication of the ministry’s management team, particularly the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Adamu Alhassan.
Yakubu also lauded the coaches for their swift mobilization and the athletes for their enthusiasm and readiness to compete.
Speaking at the event, Coach Bashir Bassey applauded the government’s commitment and promised a strong performance from the athletes.
“Thank you for your efforts in making sure that this camp becomes a reality. We promise to reciprocate by winning nothing less than gold. Second position should be gold, third position should be gold – we really appreciate your efforts,” he said.
On her part, team captain Beauty Timothy assured that the athletes would give their best.
“We promise, by God’s grace—not by our power, but through the support and effort you have put in—we will not disappoint you,” she said.
With the camp underway, Nasarawa athletes are already setting their sights on making a bold statement at the national games.