The Sokoto State Ministry of Youth and Sports has reaffirmed its commitment to further develop sports, improve the welfare and well-being of athletes, and create a conducive environment for young people to showcase their talents in various sporting disciplines.
The Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Balarabe Kadadi, stated this while being represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Alhaji Sidi Almustapha Yahaya, during an official inspection visit to sports facilities owned by the Sokoto State Government.
The visit covered the training camp of Sokoto United Football Club, as well as facilities for Handball and Basketball, to assess athletes’ preparations ahead of the commencement of the 2026 League, which is scheduled to begin on October 31, 2026.
During the inspection, the Permanent Secretary assessed key sports facilities and monitored preparations aimed at developing sports, particularly at the grassroots level, which remains one of the ministry’s major priorities.
Alhaji Yahaya also stressed the importance of proper maintenance of sports pitches, including adequate watering of grass and replanting where necessary, to ensure that pitches remain in good condition and provide athletes with a suitable environment for quality training and competitions.
Statement issued by Aminu Sani
Public Relations Officer (PRO)
Sokoto State Ministry of Youth and Sports further stated that the team also inspected athletes’ accommodation and other facilities.
He expressed satisfaction with the condition of the facilities while emphasizing the need for continuous maintenance to provide athletes with a comfortable environment for accommodation and training.
The Permanent Secretary further visited venues where Football, Handball, and Basketball training sessions are held, and assessed the level of preparations ahead of the Regional Competition scheduled for September 2026.
He said the preparations are part of the ministry’s efforts to ensure that athletes in Sokoto State receive adequate attention, equipment, and a conducive environment to enable them to succeed in both local and national competitions.
As part of the working visit, Alhaji Yahaya also visited the venue of the traditional Damben Hausa, wrestling competition.
The competition is being held as a major sporting event with support from prominent leaders at both the national and state levels, including the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu; the Governor of Sokoto State, Dr. Ahmed Aliyu; Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko; and APC youth groups in Sokoto State.
During the visit, he commended the commitment, enthusiasm, and outstanding performance displayed by the youths participating in the competition.
He noted that traditional sports play an important role in developing the talents of young people, fostering unity, and preserving Hausa culture and traditions.
Yahaya called on athletes and youths to continue supporting the Sokoto State Government under the leadership of Dr. Ahmed Aliyu, to create more opportunities for programmes aimed at further developing sports and empowering young people across the state.
He also appreciated the Governor of Sokoto State for the support and attention he continues to give to the Ministry of Youth and Sports, noting that such support is helping to create opportunities for young people to harness their talents and represent the state with pride.
The Permanent Secretary further assured that the Sokoto State Government would continue to provide the necessary support for sports development, the provision of sporting equipment, and the improvement of sports facilities, while creating opportunities for young people to demonstrate their talents in various sporting disciplines.
Alhaji Sidi Almustapha Yahaya urged athletes and coaches to demonstrate greater commitment, discipline, good conduct, and dedication to their training, stressing that success can only be achieved through hard work, discipline, and patience.
He reaffirmed that the Sokoto State Government, under the leadership of Dr. Ahmed Aliyu, would continue to give sustained attention to sports development in order to create an enabling environment for young people to develop their talents, achieve their aspirations, and proudly represent Sokoto State in local and national competitions.
Source: Sports Archives – New Telegraph
