The Narrative Changer and Transformative Chairman of the Plateau State Football Association, (PFA) Hon Dr Suleiman Yahaya Kwande has expressed the association’s profound gratitude to the soccer loving governor of Plateau State, His Excellency, Barr Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang for his “unmatchable commitment and support” for the development of football in the state.
In a press release personally signed by Hon Dr Kwande, on Tuesday, 16th April, 2024 and made available to www.pointblank.com.ng, the workaholic Chairman thanked the governor for defying the heavy downpour that threatened to postpone the kick off. Pointblank News Blog that was fully on ground at the Mangu Mini Stadium, venue of the exciting, electrifying and explosive final can boldly report that the Plateau State’s number one citizen performed the kick off inside the heavy rains, a sacrifice that is not likely to be replicated by any governor in the country. The maiden edition of the Barr Mutfwang’s administration Governor’s cup was won by Mangu LGA who piped Jos North LGA 1:0. Jos North wasted a glorious chance from the penalty spot to draw parity when their goalkeeper blasted over a penalty in the dying minutes of the game
Press release reads thus:
“Your Excellency, Barr Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, Executive Governor of Plateau State, on behalf of myself, the Executive Board, Congress, Football Legends, Stakeholders and Enthusiasts, I would like to express my deepest gratitude for your presence at the 2023 Governor’s Cup Final in Mangu, despite the heavy downpour that threatened to disrupt the kick-off. Your Excellency defied the odds and performed the ceremonial kick off, setting the tone for an exciting and electrifying final
“Your commitment to attending and performing the kick-off of the final match in such challenging weather conditions is truly commendable and demonstrates your dedication to supporting sports development in our state.
“Your willingness to brave the elements and be present at the final sends a powerful message of encouragement and inspiration to all those involved in sports in Nigeria.
“Your Excellency, your presence at the governor’s cup final not only boosted the morale of the players and spectators but also showcased your unwavering support for sports in Plateau State.
“Your Excellency Sir, as we commence the 2024 Governor’s Cup Edition, we humbly request that you continue to honour the state with your physical presence as we leverage on the unifying prowess of football to consolidate on the peace of Plateau and the empowerment potential of the game while unearthing grassroots talents for export
“I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation for your generosity in rewarding both the winners and losers of the governor’s cup final handsomely. Your decision to recognize and reward the efforts of all the participants by directing all the Local Government Chairmen to reward all the players that represented their councils in the Governor’s Cup Competition, regardless of the outcome of the match, is a testament to your fairness and sportsmanship.
“For your willingness to brave the inclement weather and stand for hours to personally hand over Lifetime Achievement Awards to football legends, you have engraved your name in our hearts. We make bold to state that all over the Federation, Your Excellency is the only governor that has demonstrated unmatchable determination and genuine love for football development and we truly commend your passion for the round leather game
“Your Excellency, your actions at the governor’s cup final are highly appreciated with deepest sense of respect and humility and be assured that they have left a lasting impression on the sporting spectacle in the country and beyond. Your commitment to supporting sports development in Plateau State is truly commendable and sets a positive example for others to follow.
“Your Excellency, on behalf of the Executive Board, Congress, Legends, Football Enthusiasts and Stakeholders, please accept our profound and warmest footballing regards
Hon Dr Kwande appreciates other stakeholders:
In a related development, Hon Dr Suleiman Yahaya Kwande equally thanked Rt Hon Gabriel K. Dewan, Speaker Plateau State House of Assembly, Ibrahim Musa Gusau, NFF President ably represented by His Excellency, Silas Agara, former Deputy Governor of Nasarawa State and NLO Representative in the NFF Executive Board, HRH Da John Putmang Hirse, Mishkaham Mwagwavul, Distinguished Senator Prince Dachunggyang Mwadkon, Sen Diket Patso Plang, Hon Solomon Selcap Dalung, former Minister of Sports who was the Honorary Match Commissioner, Hon Bashir Lawandi Datti, Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Transition Implementation Committee Chairmen, Mr Bernard Parah, CEO/Founder Bitnob for sponsoring the legends awards, Football Legends and all stakeholders for their sacrifices in ensuring an epoch final
Hon Kwande said “The Plateau State Football Association (PFA) would like to most sincerely place on records her profound heartfelt gratitude to you, all the football enthusiasts, legends, supporters, and stakeholders who braved the heavy downpour to attend the 2023 Governor’s Cup Final held in Mangu on Sunday, 14th April, 2024.
“Your steadfast support and presence in spite of the challenging weather conditions truly exemplify your dedication and passion for the beautiful game of football. The heavy downpour during the Governor’s Cup Final presented a significant challenge for both the players and the spectators”.
“However, your resilience and commitment to being part of this prestigious event did not go unnoticed. Your presence in the stands, cheering on the teams and creating an electrifying atmosphere, added to the excitement and intensity of the match”.