Ayuba Sanusi
GOVERNOR Nasir Idris of Kebbi State has announced that an ultra-modern stadium would be constructed in the state in a deliberate attempt to put Kebbi at par with other states of the federation in the area of sports development.
He said a similar gesture will be extended to the physically challenged by providing a befitting para soccer field for the state para soccer team.
The governor disclosed this at the end of the para soccer exhibition match played between Kebbi Para Soccer Team and Jega Para Soccer Team which ended 3-0 in favour of Kebbi Para Soccer Team at Haliru Abdu Stadium, Birnin Kebbi on Saturday (yesterday).
The stadium, according to the governor, would be one of the best in the northern part of the country in order to promote sports development in Kebbi State.
Governor Idris, while expressing delight with the way both teams exhibited skills during the match, described the game as interesting.
“I am happy to witness this game for the first time, it is interesting to watch the game. Since our team are dogged and are playing well, we will not hesitate to support them’, he assured.
He said his administration would continue to support the para soccer team to excel in view of their exploits in the game across Nigeria besides promoting the image of Kebbi State.
Kauran Gwandu commended Alhaji Bello Ibrahim Nahaliku, the state Accountant-General for shouldering the responsibility of the team from its inception to date.
He donated the sum of Two Million Naira to both teams with each collecting One Million Naira and also thanked Hon. Bello Kaoje, Member, House of Representatives for donating a vehicle; Dr. Usman Abubakar Tunga, Rector Waziri Umaru Federal Polytechnic, Birnin Kebbi for donating a motorcycle; Alhaji Kabiru Sani Giant for donating N200,000 to the teams, and others who donated various amounts of money to players.
Earlier, the state Chairman of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Alhaji Abubakar Ladan commended the presence of the governor at the event and his support for sports development in the state.
He also commended the Accountant-General of the state, Alhaji Bello Ibrahim Nahaliku, for nurturing the team, especially his financial and moral support.
The state para soccer team, according to Alhaji Ladan, had been recording tremendous success across Nigeria.
“Because of their feat, three of our players have been invited to join the national para soccer team for international tournaments’, he informed.
Highlights of the event included the presentation of a cup to the winner, Kebbi Para Soccer Team and cash donations.
The governor was also honoured by the players in recognition of his support for the development of para soccer in Kebbi State.
Eighteen-Eleven Media