Young football players from Yobe State have been recognized for their impressive participation in the recently concluded 10th Senate President Under-18 Unity Cup, held in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory. Despite being eliminated in the quarterfinals after a tense penalty shootout against Borno State, the team earned praise and rewards for representing Yobe State with pride and determination.
Ali Mohammed Gombe, the Chairman of Sabon Pegi Football Club, expressed his admiration for the team’s performance. “We are immensely proud of our players for their dedication and hard work during the tournament,” he said. “Although we didn’t make it past the quarterfinals, their effort and sportsmanship brought honor to Yobe State.”
To celebrate their achievements, the players were awarded certificates and gifts, courtesy of the Yobe State Governor, Hon. Mai Mala Buni. Gombe emphasized the importance of acknowledging young athletes to motivate them to reach even greater heights.
Gombe revealed that the tournament offered valuable opportunities for the players. “Four of our players were identified by scouts and organizers during the competition,” he announced proudly. This recognition underscores the quality of talent emerging from Yobe State and highlights the club’s dedication to nurturing young footballers.
“Our mission is to continue developing players who can compete on international platforms, including Europe and other sporting hubs around the world,” Gombe explained.
The Sabon Pegi Football Club Chairman also urged private organizations to play a more active role in supporting sports development. “Sports development should not be left solely to the government,” he said. “Corporate bodies need to partner with local clubs and communities to ensure young athletes have the resources and opportunities to thrive.”
Gombe believes that such partnerships can create a solid foundation for nurturing talent, not only in football but across all sporting disciplines.
During a ceremony to present certificates to the players, Governor Mai Mala Buni commended the team for their efforts and highlighted their significant achievement. Represented by the Permanent Secretary of the State Ministry of Youths, Mohammed Balumi, the Governor expressed his pride in the team for finishing among the top three squads in a competition that involved teams from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
“This is no small feat,” Governor Buni remarked. “Your performance has brought pride to Yobe State, and we are here to celebrate and encourage you to aim even higher in the future.”
The Governor emphasized the importance of rewarding the players as a way to inspire them and other young athletes in the state. “The government is committed to recognizing and celebrating your success,” he said. “This is just the beginning; we hope to see you achieve even greater milestones in the future.”
The achievements of the Yobe State team in the 10th Senate President U-18 Unity Cup serve as a testament to the potential of young athletes in the region. With continued support from the government, private organizations, and community leaders, the future of sports in Yobe State looks promising.
By honoring these players, Yobe State is setting an example of how celebrating youth achievements can create a ripple effect of motivation, not only for the players themselves but also for aspiring athletes across the state. The event underscores the power of sports as a unifying and transformative force in society.
The recognition of Yobe State’s young footballers is not just a celebration of their skills but also a step towards building a stronger sports culture in the region. As the state continues to invest in its youth, there is no doubt that Yobe will remain a significant player in Nigeria’s sporting landscape.
