Plateau Governor has described the Late Coach Ismaila Mabo as a great football enthusiast that has positively brought Plateau and Nigeria’s image to international repute.
The governor in a glowing tribute after paying a condolence visit to the family in Jos, on Monday March 13, 2023, also said Mabo’s valuable contributions to football will remain a legacy to be emulated.
Coach Mabo died in the early hours of Monday, March 13, 2023, after an illness and has been buried at the Zaria Road Burial Ground, Jos, reports The NIGERIA STANDARD.
The Governor, accompanied by some government officials recounted how the Late Mabo contributed immensely to sports development in Plateau State, Nigeria and the world.
He recalled how Coach Mabo in his active football playing days devoted his strength, energy and talent by playing for many great clubs including the famous Mighty Jets Football Club of Jos and the national team, Green Eagles.
According to the governor, as Coach, Isma’ila Mabo is credited with discovering and mentoring young talents, grooming them and exposing them to great clubs in the state, Nigeria and the world thereby enhancing the sport.
“We remember fondly his exploits as the Head Coach of the female national team, the Falcons during the FIFA 1999 Women’s World Cup; 2000 and 2004 Summer Olympic Games; as well as the Quarter Finals of the World Cup among others. During his lifetime on earth, Coach Mabo loved people and promoted peace, unity and oneness irrespective of ethnic, religious or political considerations” the Governor said.
He recalled fond memories with the Late coach saying he had lost a personal friend and mentor who did not only offer him support during his football days, but also offered him advise on enhancing the game of football when he became governor.
The NIGERIA STANDARD reports that the Late Coach Mabo was the Pioneer Head Coach of the Super Falcons that led the team to the maiden edition of the female World Cup held in China.
He had played for the Mighty Jets Football Club of Jos and the Super Eagles before venturing into coaching and was until his demise the Board Chairman of the Plateau State Sports Council.
Governor Lalong equally paid a similar visit to the family of the Plateau State Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Chairman, Reverend Father Polycarp Lubo to commiserate with them over the demise of their father, Late Baba Lawrence Lubo who died at the age of 91.
Lalong urged the family to remember and imbibe the good legacies their Late father left behind.
He said although their father’s wise counsel and presence will be greatly missed, he encouraged them to be comforted and take solace in the will of God.
