From Umar Danladi Ado, Sokoto
The Sokoto State Ministry of Youth and Sports Development has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing sports development, improving the welfare of athletes and creating a conducive environment for young people to showcase their talents across various sporting disciplines.
The Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Balarabe Kadadi, stated this while being represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Alhaji Sidi Almustapha Yahaya, during an inspection visit to sports facilities owned by the Sokoto State Government.
The inspection covered the training camp of Sokoto United Football Club, as well as handball and basketball facilities, to assess the athletes’ level of preparation ahead of the 2026 League, scheduled to commence on October 31, 2026.
During the visit, the Permanent Secretary inspected key sports facilities and monitored preparations aimed at strengthening sports development, particularly at the grassroots level, which he said remained one of the ministry’s major priorities.
Yahaya stressed the importance of properly maintaining sports pitches, including regular watering of grass and replanting where necessary, to ensure that the facilities remain in good condition and provide athletes with suitable environments for quality training and competitions.
In a statement issued by the ministry’s Public Relations Officer (PRO), Aminu Sani, the Permanent Secretary was also quoted as saying that the team inspected athletes’ accommodation and other facilities.
He expressed satisfaction with the condition of the facilities but emphasised the need for continuous maintenance to ensure that athletes have comfortable accommodation and training environments.
Yahaya also visited venues where football, handball and basketball training sessions are conducted and assessed preparations for the Regional Competition scheduled for September 2026.
He said the preparations were part of the ministry’s efforts to ensure that athletes in Sokoto State receive adequate attention, equipment and a conducive environment to excel in local and national competitions.
As part of the working visit, the Permanent Secretary inspected the venue of the traditional Damben Hausa wrestling competition.
The competition is being held as a major sporting event with the support of prominent leaders at both the national and state levels, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Sokoto State Governor Dr Ahmed Aliyu, Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko and APC youth groups in the state.
During the visit, Yahaya commended the commitment, enthusiasm and impressive performances of the youths participating in the competition.
He noted that traditional sports play an important role in nurturing young talents, promoting unity and preserving Hausa culture and traditions.
The Permanent Secretary called on athletes and youths to continue supporting the Sokoto State Government under the leadership of Governor Ahmed Aliyu, saying such support would help create more opportunities for programmes aimed at developing sports and empowering young people across the state.
He also commended the governor for his continued support and attention to the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, noting that the support was helping young people harness their talents and represent Sokoto State with pride.
Yahaya assured that the state government would continue to provide necessary support for sports development, sporting equipment and improved facilities, while creating opportunities for young people to demonstrate their abilities in various sporting disciplines.
He urged athletes and coaches to demonstrate commitment, discipline, good conduct and dedication to their training, stressing that success could only be achieved through hard work, discipline and patience.
The Permanent Secretary reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to sustained sports development, saying it would continue to create an enabling environment for young people to develop their talents, achieve their aspirations and proudly represent Sokoto State in local and national competitions.