The 2024 Plateau State Governor’s Cup began with a vibrant opening ceremony at the Kent Academy football field in Miango, Bassa Local Government Area, setting the tone for what promises to be an electrifying tournament. Organized by the Plateau State Football Association (PFA) under the innovative leadership of Hon. Dr. Suleiman Yahaya Kwande, the event has become the pinnacle of grassroots football on the Plateau.
The ceremony drew an impressive crowd, including esteemed dignitaries such as HRH Rev. Ronku Aka (Rtd), Acting President of the Bassa Traditional Council, Chief Richard Adamson, and Mr. Musa Audu, Vice President of the Irigwe Development Association. Fans were also treated to spectacular cultural displays by the Irigwe traditional dancers, whose performances added a unique touch of heritage to the proceedings.
The opening match featured last year’s runners-up, Jos North LGA, clashing with third-place Shendam LGA. The match rekindled memories of last season’s semi-final showdown, where Jos North narrowly edged out Shendam. This year, Shendam came prepared, with their captain, Longkwap Derko, scoring the tournament’s first goal in the fifth minute, sending their supporters into a frenzy. However, Jos North’s relentless striker, Kazeem Fatai, equalized in the 30th minute, bringing the game to a thrilling 1-1 draw.
Hon. Dr. Suleiman Yahaya Kwande expressed his gratitude to the Executive Governor of Plateau State, Barrister Caleb Mannaseh Mutfwang, for his unwavering support of grassroots sports. He praised the seamless organization of the opening ceremony and urged all participating teams to uphold the spirit of sportsmanship. “Football is a unifying force,” he emphasized, “and this tournament is a testament to our commitment to fostering unity through sports.”
On his part Hon. Isreal Amabu, the Deputy Chairman of Bassa Local Government said they are honoured to host the opening ceremony of the 2024 Governors Cup. He thanked the leadership of the PFA for ensuring that all parts of the state feel the impact of his football development in the state. He went further to ask for support for the Governor of the state Barr. Caleb Mutfwang as he is doing a lot for sports in the state and he is also ensuring that there is peace in the state.
The action continues today at various venues across Jos. Fans can catch high-stakes matches such as:
- Mangu vs. Pankshin (12 PM) at Rwang Pam Township Stadium
- Langtang North vs. Mikang (2 PM) at the same venue, followed by Bassa vs. Qua’an Pan (4 PM)
- Jos East vs. Wase (2 PM) and Barkin Ladi vs. Riyom (4 PM) at St. John’s College field
- Langtang South vs. Kanke (2 PM) and Kanam vs. Jos South (4 PM) at St. Augustine Seminary field
The 2024 Governor’s Cup is poised to be a thrilling celebration of football, culture, and community spirit, as teams from across Plateau State compete for glory and the pride of their local governments.
