Kaduna State commissioner for Sports Development, Prof. Benjamin Kumai Gugong, has expressed confidence that the state will surpass its previous performance at the upcoming National Youth Games.
The commissioner made this statement yesterday during a courtesy visit from the executives of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Kaduna State chapter, at his office.
He stated that preparations are in full swing, noting that Governor Uba Sani has been providing essential support to ensure the state’s athletes excel. “Our preparations are progressing well. Different associations have started selecting the athletes who will represent us, working closely with the Ministry and other key stakeholders,” Gugong remarked.
The commissioner highlighted that coaches, sports associations, and the ministry are collaborating to ensure that only the best athletes represent the state, emphasising that Kaduna will participate in several sporting events. Regarding the Zonal Elimination stage, he mentioned that Kaduna has a strong history of performance and assured that the state would perform even better this time around. “I am confident that Kaduna State will be well represented in the Northwest,” he added.
Gugong identified facilities such as Murtala Mohammed Square, Ranchers Bees Stadium, and Kaduna State University as potential venues for the Zonal Elimination. He further revealed that the Ministry is also focused on providing athletes with adequate training kits, medical checks, and welfare packages to boost morale ahead of the competition. He commended the media, especially SWAN, for promoting grassroots sports and urged journalists to continue highlighting both the achievements and challenges within the sports sector. Gugong noted that increased publicity will not only attract more support from the private sector but also inspire young athletes to pursue excellence in their sporting careers.
