National Sports Festival opportunity to discover new talent – Baruga
Omeiza Bilal
President of the Nigeria Sepaktakraw Federations (NISTAF), Mr. Abdullahi Ibrahim Baruga, has described the National Sport Festival as a symbol of unity saying it is an opportunity for sport authorities to discover new talents for the country.
In his goodwill message at the 22nd National Sports Festival tagged Gateway Games, Baruga, said: “Over the years, this event serves as a powerful symbol of unity, sportsmanship, and national pride. it is also beyond a mere competition; but an opportunity to showcase and discover talents for various sports.”
He used the opportunity to canvass for Sepaktakraw to be introduced as a game in the National Sports Festivals.
According to him, the sport is dynamic and exciting as it combines elements of volleyball, soccer, badminton, and martial arts.
Sepaktakraw is a traditional sport that originated in Southeast Asia and has gained popularity in other parts of the world as well.
“As you are well aware, Sepaktakraw is presently played by more than 200 Nigerian athletes across 22 centres in 12 states of Nigeria, namely; Plateau, Nasarawa, Zamfara, Kano, Kaduna, Oyo, Abia, Crossriver, Akwaibom, Gombe, Bauchi and the FCT.
“Over this period, the Federation has been fully committed to enhancing programs and activities that will foster the development of our athletes both locally and internationally.
“Despite this growing presence of the sport across Nigeria, Sepaktakraw could not feature in the 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival due to some vital technicalities that would be resolved before the next edition.
“However, as a stakeholder and in view of the above, i wish to encourage all participating federations to embrace the spirit of the festival, to compete with passion, integrity and foster unity,” he said.
