The week long Barr Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang’s Under 13 Football Competition which started on Monday, 19th May, 2024 at the Rwang Pam Stadium, Jos, an iconic arena that bore witness to the heartbeat of Plateau State’s rich football legacy came to an exciting end on Monday, 27th May, 2024.
The over two decades abandoned competition, revived by the Hon Dr Suleiman Yahaya Kwande’s led PFA Board was on everyone’s lips – an event not solely about the beautiful game and discovering of talents but also a celebration of exemplary figures. These individuals had woven their presence into the nation’s fabric, leaving indelible marks on Nigeria’s sporting annals.
As Wase LGA and Mangu LGA teams took to the groomed pitch of Rwang Pam Township Stadium, Jos after Jos North had whitewashed Langtang North 3 nil in the third place match, preceding the final, their nerves were calmed by the enthusiasm of the crowd that had gathered – parents, friends, and football fans, all united by the sheer excitement of the beautiful game.
A keenly contested final, worthy of the huge investments by the PFA and the sports loving chairmen of the 14 LGAs with the exception of Mikang, Quaanpan and Barkin Ladi who didn’t sponsor their kids to grace the tournament, goals were scored, and dreams envisioned on the field of play – the flair, the rush, the tactical ingenuity of the teams crafted a spectacle that held the audience captive.
It was football in its most innocent form, untainted by the commercialisation that often shadows the sport, upheld by the spirit and joy that comes from playing with one’s peers.
Spectators were more entertained by the two Local Governments chairmen of Wase, Hon Mohammed Anani and Hon Markus Artu, the Chairman of Mangu whose special celebration of cheers and tears from the VIP Box will go down the annals of history.
The permissible envious choreography-like jubilations by the two Council chairmen as the goals go in for the teams and the gloomy mood when the goals are scored against them highlighted the passion and excitement football brings
As the final whistle blew, culminating in a loudening of cheers for victors and tears for victors and vanquished alike it was the post-match ceremonies that carved the deepest impression.
LIFE TIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD:
Three Former Ministers: Damishi T. Sango, Late Mark Ishaya Aku, Solomon Selcap Dalung; former Director General, National Sports Commission, Alhassan Yakmut; Former House of Representatives Member, Lumumba Dah Adeh; and ALGON Chairman, Mohammed Anani were honoured with the Life Time Achievement Award – a reflection of their dedication and contribution to the harmony and development of sports within the country.
Damishi T. Sango, a former Minister, still carried the air of authority that had followed him during his tenure; his contributions to the growth of sports in Nigeria were well-documented, having served as a catalyst for youth empowerment.
Late Mark Ishaya Aku, whose memory was being honoured posthumously, had himself been a shining example of selfless service; his tireless efforts in the promotion of sports endeared him to many as a champion of grassroots sports development.
Solomon Selcap Dalung, with his trademark red beret and unwavering spirit, had etched his name into the hearts of sports enthusiasts through his vocal advocacy for better sports infrastructure and athlete welfare while he served as Minister
Alhassan Yakmut, the former Director General of the National Sports Commission, had administered over key transformations in the sports sector; his leadership qualities often likened to a skilled midfielder’s ability to orchestrate the flow of play.
Lumumba Dah Adeh, the esteemed former House of Representatives member, was a patron of not only politics but also of sports, where he pushed for legislation that improved sports administration and personally set up football club himself
Prof Ishaya Pam, a global renowned surgeon cum administrator, Pam was recognized for marrying hospital services with football during his days as the Chief Medical Director of Jos University Teaching Hospital, JUTH when he founded JUTH FC.
ALGON Chairman, Mohammed Anani, a symbol of pragmatic leadership, was recognised beyond his acute political acumen; his support for community sports initiatives highlighted his belief in sports as a tool for unity and community development.
Sango, with a familiar oratory and posture that mirrored a seasoned administrator, nodded his appreciation with humility on behalf of other awardees. His expression gripped with emotion as he reflected on his journey as the former Minister of Youth and Sports Development, underscored the undeniable truth that sports, indeed, can be the cornerstone upon which communities and nations are lifted towards unity and greatness.
He applauded the brilliance of Kwande’s led board and reserved special commendation for Gov Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang for being a sports lover
