In an effort to engage Plateau Youths as result of the nationwide Protest for good governance which has enters day two, the Plateau State the Commissioner for Youths and Sports Hon. Bashir Lawandi Datti , has taken a unique approach to engage the youths in Jos, the Plateau State capital in a grassroots tournament.
Datti said he organized a soccer tournament aimed at turning the minds of the youths away from destruction and channeling their energy into something positive.
Speaking the CAPITAL POST in Jos on Friday he explained that the aim of the tournament is to provide an alternative platform for the youths to express themselves and showcase their talents.
“We want to engage the youths in something productive and take their minds off the protests,” Datti said.
The Commissioner commended the youths for the peaceful nature of the protests so far, saying that it shows that Plateau Youths are responsible and can be engaged constructively.
“We are proud of the youths for conducting themselves peacefully during the protests. This tournament is our way of rewarding them and keeping them engaged,” Datti added.
“The soccer tournament, which kicked off Thursday, has attracted over 35 teams from across Jos and surrounding areas. The competition is fierce, but the atmosphere is electric, with the youths cheering each other on and having a great time.
Datti said that the tournament is also aimed at promoting unity and social cohesion among the youths.
“We want to use sports to bring the youths together and promote peace and understanding,” he said.
As the tournament continues, the Commissioner promised to provide support and resources to the participating teams.
Also Speaking a Youth Stakeholder in Jos North Local government Alhaji Garkuwa Sani commended the effort of the Commissioner in organising the sport to engage the youths together.
He also appreciated the maturity of the Plateau Youths during the protest, saying as Stakeholders they won’t allowed the Peace in the state destroyed.
