By Monday Ajegena
The Government of Nasarawa State, Central Nigeria has applauded the Sports Writers Association for their initiative to organise a marathon race in EGGON Hills, Nassarawa-Egggon Local Government Area (LGA) of the state.
Barr. Labaran Magaji, Secretary to the State Government (SSG) gave the commendation while playing host to the members of the association in Lafia.
The SSG expressed the state government’s commitment to promoting sports with a focus on engaging youths and generating revenue.
Magaji lauded SWAN’s initiative to utilise the Nasarawa Eggon Hills for sports activities with a view of exposing the tourism potential of the place and help generate revenue to the state.
He noted that the initiative aligns with the state government’s policy direction, which focuses on peace and youth engagement.
“One of the areas that can engage a large chunk of the youths is sports and when they are engaged in that aspect, it reduces their thinking of any form of criminality or restiveness,” Magaji added.
He assured SWAN of the state government’s support, stating that Governor Abdullahi Sule was committed to promoting sports development and youth engagement.
The SSG therefore encouraged SWAN to continue promoting sports in the state, saying that the current government under Gov Sule was transparent and open in its governance.
Earlier, the Chairman of SWAN informed the SSG on the association plans to organise a marathon race at Nassarawa-Egggon hills to boost tourism and revenue generation for the state.
“The event will attract people from different countries to see the topography of Nasarawa Eggon that has not been harnessed sport-wise”, George said.
He congratulated the new SSG fin his appointment and expressed optimism that he would contribute greatly in adding value to the administration.
The SWAN Chairman also announced plans for a clinic for journalists interested in sports reportage and a seven-a-side SWAN football tournament as well as SWAN Week within the year.
He restated the commitment of SWAN to sports development in the state and gave the assurance that it will continue to promote sports in all facets.
The SWAN delegation was led by its Chairman, Mr Smah George of Nasarawa Broadcasting Service (NBS).(www.krestnews.com).