Farouk Yarma, the Chief Executive Officer of Prudential Sports Awards, addressed the challenges facing Gombe United Football Club and Doma United Football Club following their recent relegation from the Nigeria Premier Football League. In an award ceremony held to recognize outstanding sportsmen and women from the 2023/2024 season, Yarma urged both clubs to prepare for a strong comeback to the main league. His message emphasized understanding that relegation is a part of the sport, and while it is disappointing, it presents an opportunity for teams to regroup and bounce back stronger. Yarma expressed confidence in Gombe United’s ability to return to the elite league, citing their history with relegation and resilience. He also highlighted Doma United’s commitment, noting the significant personal investment made by their owner, reinforcing the notion that passion for the game can drive success.
Yarma encouraged the community’s support for these teams, suggesting that fans attending matches and cheering for their clubs could enhance their chances of success. He believes that government support might also follow increased public attendance, boosting both morale and resources for the teams. His remarks at the awards ceremony underscore his belief in collective responsibility—from fans to the government—in nurturing local football talent and fostering an environment conducive to growth. With consistent encouragement and community involvement, he asserted that both Gombe United and Doma United could secure a return to Nigeria’s top tier of football.
The ceremony also celebrated numerous individuals for their outstanding contributions to sports, including 13-year-old Munyal Kwairanga, who excelled with three gold medals at the National Youth Games in Asaba, Delta State. Other honorees included Khamisu Mailantarki, the founder of Mailantarki FC, and Suleiman Umar, owner of Doma United Football Club, both recognized for their dedication to sports development in their respective capacities. The awards event served not only to honor personal achievements but also highlighted the importance of investing in youth sports, an integral aspect of building future athletes and fostering talent.
Additionally, awards such as the Breakthrough Player and Rising Star for Jabir Hassan and the Golden Whistle Award for referee Buhari Bawa illustrated the broader impact of sports on various stakeholders. Haruna Isa Kalshingi’s recognition as Referee of the Year further underlined the significance of officiating in maintaining the integrity and quality of football. Yarma’s acknowledgment of these figures pointed toward a well-rounded approach to celebrating achievements within the sports ecosystem, recognizing not just players but also those in supporting roles like coaches and referees.
During his speech, Yarma emphasized the initiative’s goal of showcasing Gombe’s potential as a breeding ground for football talent, with aspirations to attract the attention of national team coaches. By honoring local athletes and their accomplishments, the Sports Awards aim to send a clear message that Gombe produces players capable of representing Nigeria at various levels. This focus on nurturing local talent as a means of contributing to the national scene indicates a broader vision where regional contributions to sports reflect on a national scale, highlighting the importance of investment at the grassroots level.
In conclusion, Yarma’s statements reflect a commitment to revitalize Gombe’s football scene while simultaneously encouraging community involvement. The acknowledgment of various sports figures highlights a concerted effort to celebrate achievements and inspire the younger generation. The call for support aimed at Gombe United and Doma United illustrates the need for unity in promoting regional football. Through cooperative efforts from the community, local clubs, and government support, the vision for Gombe as a center for sports development in Northern Nigeria can be realized, thus fostering a bright future for aspiring athletes in the region.
