2024 Olympic games: Kefas lauds the state’s Sports Ministry
OKERAFOR ATHANATIUS, JALINGO
As the world prepare to participate in the 2024 Olympic games slated for the month of July in Paris, France, Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas has applauded the State Ministry of Youths and Sports Development for its show of commitment and planning towards ensuring that the state’s contingents are not left behind.
Kefas, who spoke this weekend on the occasion of the 2024 Olympic Day run held at the Jolly Nyame Stadium Jalingo said the Ministry is putting modalities together to groom young talents from the 16 LGAs of the State for full participation in the upcoming event.
Represented by the Head of Civil Service, Mr. Paul Tino Maigida, the governor pledged to continue to support young athletes with a view to improving sports and sporting activities across the State.
“The activities of the State Ministry of Youths and Sports Development are in line with the five points agenda of my administration and I stand to commend the Ministry for this show of commitment”, said Gov. Kefas.
In his address of welcome earlier, the State Commissioner for Youths and Sports Development, Hon. Joseph Joshua lauded the athletes for coming out en-masse to be part of the ceremony.
Hon. Joshua said the event marks not just a celebration of sports but a sense of collective commitment to health, unity, and sportsmanship in the lives of the people of the State.
According to him, the Olympic Run Day is more than just a race, it’s a symbol of hope, perseverance, and excellence which reminds all of the incredible power of sport to transcend boundaries, bring people together, and foster peace and understanding.
“As we gather here, we embody the same values that the Olympic Games represent: respect, friendship, and the pursuit of excellence”, Hon. Joshua said.
He emphasized on the significant strides made by Governor Kefas in promoting sports development saying, the initiatives were to support young athletes, improve sports infrastructure, and encourage active lifestyles and more so, aimed at transforming lives and building a stronger, healthier community.
The Commissioner however, commended the participants for their dedication stressing that whether they are participating fully or not, they are champions.
“Your presence here today inspires others to embrace fitness and embody the Olympic motto: “Faster, Higher, Stronger – Together.”
“As we embark on this race, let us run with purpose, not just for ourselves, but for the unity and progress of our beloved Taraba State. Let this run be a reminder that together, we can overcome any obstacle and achieve greatness”, he added.
Responding to questions from Journalists shortly, the President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), Engr. Habu Gumel represented by a member of the Committee, Galadima Jesse described Sports as one of the avenues that unite the world despite tribal, religious, among other differences.
Gumel said Sports is what brings people together as would be demonstrated in the Paris 2024 event which is less than one month from today.
Some highlights displayed during the event were; 100 metres boys and girls, 400 metres relay race and a football match between Shonve FC Yorro and Jalingo City FC where Shonve FC of Yorro defeated their Jalingo counterpart by a lone goal.
