By: John Bassey.
The Kebbi State Government is set to enhance its efforts in sports development to improve the mental and physical well-being of its youth. As part of these efforts, the state plans to develop a 6,000-capacity indoor stadium this year to boost sporting activities for young men and women.
The Commissioner for Youths and Sports Development, Nura Bala Fingila, disclosed this during the opening ceremony of the maiden edition of the Dr. Nafisa Nasir Idris Gimbiyar Basaura Unity Challenge Cup Competition on Sunday evening in Birnin Kebbi.
Fingila highlighted Governor Nasir Idris’ commitment to sports development as a core policy of his administration, aimed at fostering unity, economic growth, and the holistic development of the youth.
“His Excellency has included various sports programs in the 2025 budget, including the development of a 6,000-capacity indoor sports hall,” Fingila stated.
“This tournament aligns with that objective—uniting the youth. Football today is not just a sport; it is a significant economic venture that fosters social cohesion and unity.”
He also lauded Kebbi’s achievement in producing international soccer talent like Zaidu Sanusi Jega, emphasizing the state’s ambition to see more of its indigenes excel on national and international stages.
Fingilla commended the organizer of the competition, Alhaji Khairullah Abdullahi, Sarkin Yamman Jega, for organizing the competition in collaboration with the office of the wife of the State Governor, Dr. Nafisa Nasir Idris, in line with the State Governor, Dr. Nasir Kauran Gwandu’s led administration’s vision of uniting and empowering the youth.
The Gimbiyar Basaura Unity Challenge Cup Competition, organized in honor of the governor’s wife, Dr. Nafisa Nasir Idris, features participants from all 21 local government areas of Kebbi State.
The tournament is sponsored by philanthropist Khairullahi Jega, founder of the Alkhairiyya Foundation.
“The goal is to groom young talents for prospects while promoting unity and understanding among them,” Fingila added.
The sponsor, Alhaji Khairullahi Jega, who watched the opening match between his team, Sarkin Yamman Jega Football Club, and Dutsinmari Football Club, expressed his dedication to supporting youth and sports development in line with Governor Idris’ vision.
Speaking through the State PRO of the APC, Isa Assalafi, he reiterated his commitment to providing the material and financial support needed to uplift the youth.
The football match was won by Sarkin Yamman Jega Football Club by three goals against their opponent, Dutsinmari Football Club.
