Plateau State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Musa Ashoms, has lauded the establishment of New Hope Stars Football Academy in Jos, describing it as a “bold statement” of confidence in Plateau’s sports-friendly environment and a catalyst for youth empowerment.
Speaking during the official unveiling of the academy along Domkat Bali Road, Jos, Ashoms said the initiative demonstrates that private investors now see Plateau as a peaceful and fertile ground for sports development.
“This tells you that sports in Plateau State will grow exponentially,” Ashoms declared. “It shows that investors recognize an atmosphere of peace and opportunity. The New Hope Stars Academy is proof that when peace thrives, progress follows.”
The Commissioner, who performed the ceremonial kickoff and interacted warmly with players across various age categories, commended founder Mr. Yohanna Gorgi for his vision to nurture local talent into global football icons.
He emphasized that such private initiatives complement the government’s efforts under Governor Barr. Caleb Mutfwang to use sports as a tool for youth engagement and economic empowerment.
“There is no better way to channel the energy, vitality, and zest of our youth than through sports,” Ashoms said. “The New Hope Stars Academy has provided a platform for this, and we are deeply appreciative.”
Ashoms also outlined the state government’s broader sports agenda, which includes ongoing renovations at Rwang Pam Township Stadium and Zaria Road Stadium, aimed at creating world-class facilities to support emerging athletes.
“We want to see Plateau represented in every Super Eagles team — from the U-17 to the senior side,” the commissioner stated. “We’ve had greats like Ahmed Musa and Benedict Akwuegbu, but we shouldn’t dwell on history. The next generation is right here.”
The commissioner noted that the academy’s FIFA-standard pitch adds to the state’s growing portfolio of sports infrastructure and commended the integration of education and moral training into its football program.
He further revealed that Jos will host the Nigeria University Games (NUGA) in November 2025 and that the Vom Games, featuring a strawberry mascot, will also hold later in the year — both part of the government’s plan to position Plateau as Nigeria’s emerging sports hub.
“When government and non-governmental actors converge their energies, the state experiences exponential growth,” Ashoms said, assuring the academy of the government’s full support in its mission to raise disciplined, globally competitive athletes.
For founder Yohanna Gorgi, the dream is to combine football, academics, and character building to produce not just footballers but ambassadors for Plateau and Nigeria.
“Good products attract support,” Gorgi said. “Our priority is not money but building a legacy that will inspire generations.”
With the unveiling of New Hope Stars Football Academy, Plateau State’s sports landscape appears poised for a new era — one driven by collaboration, talent development, and a shared vision for youth advancement.
STORY CREDIT: GOLD MARKUS
PICTURE CREDIT: NEW HOPE ACADEMY MEDIA