Gombe Aquatic Sports Body Unveils Board, Sets Stage for Competitive Debut

Gombe Aquatic Sports Body Unveils Board, Sets Stage for Competitive Debut

By Auwal Ahmad Umar 

The Gombe State chapter of the Aquatic Sports Association has taken a major step toward revitalising water-based sports with the official inauguration of its patrons and board members, signalling the beginning of structured aquatic sporting activities in the state.

The ceremony, held at the Conference Hall of the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, also featured the establishment of twelve strategic committees designed to drive the association’s operations and ensure effective coordination of its programs.

Speaking at the event, the state chairman of the association, Tijjani Jaafar, described the inauguration as a turning point for aquatic sports development in Gombe. He revealed that the association is set to roll out various activities, including competitive swimming, diving, and water polo, as part of efforts to harness local talent.

Jaafar commended Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya for fostering a supportive environment for sports growth, noting that such backing has created opportunities for emerging athletes to thrive.

He, however, stressed the need for sustained collaboration between government and private stakeholders, particularly in sponsorship and athlete welfare, to ensure that the association’s programs are not hindered by funding challenges.

According to him, Gombe athletes are well-positioned to compete at national platforms, including the upcoming National Sports Festival, provided there is increased investment in training and development.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Adamu Inuwa Ibrahim, endorsed the association during a meeting in his office, assuring members of the ministry’s continued support. He expressed optimism that the body would contribute positively to the state’s sporting reputation and pledged an open-door policy for engagement.

Also speaking, one of the association’s patrons, Shehu Awak, called for financial support to enable the smooth execution of programs and expressed confidence in the association’s capacity to deliver on its mandate.

The newly formed committees include technical organisation and meetings; finance, budget, and sponsorship; school sports and higher institutions; and the Aquatic Integrity, Disciplinary, and Ethics Unit.

Others are media and publicity; lifeguards; water safety and drowning prevention; facilities and swimming pool monitoring; security; athlete discovery and development; open-water swimming, polo, and diving; medical and doping control; as well as the Aquatic Welfare Committee.

With the structures now in place, stakeholders say the association is poised to nurture talent and position Gombe as a competitive force in aquatic sports nationwide.