By; JACOB ONJEWU DICKSON
The Director-General, Press Affairs of the Gombe State Government, Alhaji Ismaila Uba Misilli, has assured of the state’s readiness to ensure continuous robust media partnership in line with Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya’s developmental drive.
Alhaji Misilli who spoke when he visited the National Secretariat of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) located within package A of the Moshood Abiola stadium Abuja said Gombe state under the leadership of Governor Yahaya remains committed to the development and upliftment of Sports as a sure way of engaging youths.
The soft-spoken and articulate DG who had a long partnership discussions with SWAN President, Mr. Isaiah Benjamin, inside his office said already Gombe State Governor has officially kicked off 2024 football season with unprecedented financial support to nearly 20 grassroots clubs that will take part in the upcoming Nationwide League One (NLO) Football competition.
According to a statement signed by the Secretary-General, SWAN, Ikenna Okonkwo dated Wednesday April 3, 2024, while reeling out other sports development initiatives of Governor Yahaya, Alhaji Misilli, a veteran Media Practitioner said, “Sports have been prioritised by the present Gombe state administration as a tool to empower youths, and divert their attention from vices that could create security challenges.
“Gombe state has been peaceful and will remain so because his Excellency the governor since inception in office has prioritised huge investments in human infrastructure development, just as he has made visible impact in other areas.
“So, the current government is dedicated to working tirelessly in harnessing the potentials in sports to the benefits of the citizens. Today, Gombe is known for its vast talents in sports.
“As you know, Gombe state is the only northern state with two professional clubs in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL). And that is because the governor has created enabling environment for anyone irrespective of tribe or religion to thrive.
“Whoever is in Gombe (resident or visiting) will attest to the fact that the government has been doing so much in all facets of development.”
He then assured that the government will collaborate with SWAN at both the state and national levels as partners in progress as well as in improving the welfare of the sporting media professionals.
Alhaji Misilli also harped on the need for Journalists, irrespective of divergent interests to work as a united force.
Responding, the SWAN President, Mr. Benjamin, said the Association is always receptive of government and non-governmental bodies who will join hands in advancing the course of sports writing in Nigeria.
“I want specially appreciate the government of Gombe state government for its developmental foresight. Of particular note is the Director-General Press Affairs to Governor Inuwa Yahaya, gentleman of repute who has maintained cordial media relationship with his colleagues.
“Please, continue to support SWAN in Gombe state because we at the National are always happy when the state governments collaborate with our various chapters in carrying out their duties.
“On our part as a professional body, we will continue to partner Gombe state government in publicising its good works,” he said.
