Sports

FG to Diversify Sports For More Youth Empowerment

Published

2 years ago

September 23, 2022

The Federal Government has assured that it will explore all possible avenues for more youth participation in sports with a view to empowering them to become self employed and self reliant so as to contribute to the socio-economic development of the country.

The Honourable Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Mr. Sunday Dare gave the assurance on Friday in his Office in Abuja when he received the Executive Director of Hand – To – Hand Sports Federation of Moscow.

Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Alhaji Ismaila Abubakar, the Minister stated that “this was in line with the present Administration’s policy thrust which is geared towards making the teeming Nigerian youth entrepreneurial, self-reliant and employable”.

According to him, “the Ministry will put up workable modalities that will make Nigeria not to only key into the Hand – To – Hand Mashal Sports but to also open up more doors for our youth involvement in the various fields of sports world wide”.

He therefore urged the youth in the country to keep themselves abreast with the various policies, programmes and initiatives of the present administration so as to take advantage of every available opportunity to better their lives.

Earlier, the Chief Executive Administrator, Hand – To – Hand Sports, Moscow, Mr. Sorgai Poroshin stated that he was in the Ministry to introduce the game to the country.

According to him, the Sports which had been in existence for the past sixteen years has a thirty- eight-country membership, including Ghana, hence the need for Nigeria to see the possibility of keying into it especially as it is the giant of Africa.

He noted that Nigeria’s acceptance of the game will further open a new horizon for the country’s youth to make their mark in the Committee of Sporting World.

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Sports

Sports heavyweights indicate readiness to volunteer at the 2025 ECOWAS Marathon as registration starts

Published

2 hours ago

February 5, 2025

The Gleamer

As preparations intensify for the 2025 ECOWAS Abuja International Marathon, key figures in the sports and fitness industry have expressed their eagerness to volunteer and contribute to the event’s success.

The marathon, set for March 1, 2025, is part of activities to celebrate ECOWAS’ 50th anniversary.

With thousands of runners expected to participate in the 21-kilometre half marathon and the 5-kilometre race, volunteers will be crucial in ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience for all.

Gabriel Okon, the Race Director emphasized the significance of volunteers in an event that dedicated individuals to handle various logistical and operational aspects.

“Marathon is not just about the runners; it’s about the team behind the scenes. Volunteers are the backbone of any successful race, from registration and logistics to hydration stations and medical support. Their role is invaluable in making the event smooth and enjoyable for everyone,” he said.

Application for volunteers opened Monday, February 3, 2025, and interested applicants can pick up a form at the Athletics Federation of Nigeria office, Moshood Abiola Stadium, Package A, Abuja.

Members of the sports family including athletes, coaches, fitness trainers, and others have pledged to support the event in different capacities, from technical assistance to race coordination and mentorship for young runners.

Expressing his delight at the overwhelming response, Okon remarked, “The enthusiasm we are seeing from volunteers is inspiring. From retired directors in the ministry, elite athletes, to community fitness trainers, so many people are eager to be part of this celebration of unity and athleticism. This is more than just a race—it’s a movement that brings people together for a greater cause.”

Beyond the competition itself, the ECOWAS Abuja International Marathon represents an opportunity to promote health, youth empowerment, and regional unity through sports.
With over $71,000 in prize money up for grabs, the event is expected to attract elite runners while also encouraging participation from amateur fitness enthusiasts.

Okon stressed that the marathon is not only about athleticism but also about making a lasting impact. “We want this marathon to leave a lasting legacy beyond race day. It’s about inspiring people to embrace fitness, fostering friendships across borders, and promoting a culture of healthy living,” he said.

Interested participants can register at www.ecowasabujamarathon.org or visit the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) offices, FCT Sports councils, and local athletics associations across Nigeria.

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