The 2024 Governor’s Cup has emerged as a beacon of youth engagement, leveraging sports as a tool to combat restiveness and create opportunities for young people in Plateau State. This initiative, championed by the administration of Governor Caleb Mutfwang, underscores its commitment to fostering positive youth development through grassroots sports.
Representing the Governor at the Shendam Mini Stadium during the highly anticipated final match between Shendam and Jos North Local Government Areas, Hon. Ubandoma Laven, Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, highlighted the administration’s focus on youth empowerment through sports.
In his remarks, Hon. Laven commended the Plateau Football Association (PFA), led by Hon. Dr. Suleiman Kwande, for its exemplary organization of the tournament from the preliminary stages to the grand finale. He reaffirmed the government’s unwavering support for grassroots sports initiatives, stating, “The goal of this administration, under the leadership of His Excellency, Barrister Caleb Mutfwang, is to use sports as a catalyst to engage our youth positively, bring them joy, and steer them away from social vices. I am thrilled that the PFA has embraced the “Time Is Now” mantra, dedicating itself to year-round youth engagement through various competitions.”
The Commissioner also congratulated Jos North for clinching the trophy in a tightly contested final.
Tournament Highlights
In the third-place match, Mikang secured a 1-0 victory over Jos South, thanks to a spectacular free-kick by Merpring Chigdi in the 52nd minute. The final saw Jos North, runners-up in the previous edition, triumph over Shendam Local Government Area with a lone goal. The decisive moment came when Francis Izang’s corner kick found the back of the net, leaving Shendam’s goalkeeper, Abdulsalam Shitnaan, helpless.
Recognitions and Awards
The tournament celebrated exceptional individual performances:
- Obed Luka of Jos South emerged as the highest goal scorer.
- Nasiru Muazu of Jos North was named the best goalkeeper.
- Longwap Darko of Shendam earned the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award.
- Coach Sani Muhammad of Jos North was recognized as the best coach of the tournament.
The Governor’s Cup continues to illustrate how sports can serve as a unifying and transformative force, aligning with Governor Mutfwang’s vision of a vibrant and engaged youth population.