By DUMAH RANDONG
GovernorCaleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to sports development, describing it as a powerful tool for fostering unity and building character among Nigerians.
The governor stated this during the official commissioning of a new sports complex constructed by the Abdulsamad Rabiu Foundation at the University of Jos last Thursday.
Represented by his deputy, Mrs Ngo Josephine Piyo, the governor said his administration placed great importance on sports and youth development, acknowledging their transformative impact.
“The Governor Caleb Mutfwang-led administration places a premium on youth and sports development, understanding the transformative power of sports in shaping character, fostering discipline, and promoting unity among our people.
“Our government holds this University in high esteem, recognising its pivotal role in shaping our youth and producing great leaders who have contributed immensely to the progress of our nation,” he said.
Mutfwang described the project as laudable, noting that it would enhance students’ physical fitness, promote skill development and further encourage a healthy sporting culture on campus.
Vice-Chancellor of the University of Jos, Professor Tanko Ishaya, expressed appreciation to the Abdulsamad Rabiu Africa Initiative (ASR Africa) and the Plateau State Government for their support in upgrading the institution’s sporting facilities ahead of the forthcoming Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA) competition.
The Chairman of the University Sports Committee, Professor Ishaya Pam, and the Acting Chairman of the NUGA Games, Dr Ajibua Alayode, both commended NUGA for choosing UNIJOS as host, describing the new facilities as world-class.
Mr Ubon Udoh, Managing Director of the Abdulsamad Rabiu Africa Initiative, said the foundation was responsible for implementing the personal philanthropic initiatives of the Founder and Chairman of BUA Group, Alhaji Abdulsamad Rabiu.
He expressed gratitude to the University and the Plateau State Government for the opportunity to contribute to societal development through sports infrastructure.
Goodwill messages were delivered by the Plateau State Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development, Hon. Musa Ashoms, and the President of the Students’ Union Government, Ms Pwajok Jane Kangyang, among others.
Our correspondent reports that the commissioning of the Basketball and Tennis Sports Complex, named after Alhaji Abdulsamad Rabiu, marked one of the final milestones in preparations for the university’s hosting of the NUGA Games, showcasing Plateau State’s growing reputation as a hub of sporting excellence.