Kwara State Governor, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to promoting sports development among youths.
Represented by Mallam Bolakale Mogaji, Executive Chairman of the Kwara State Sports Commission, the Governor made this statement at the closing ceremony of the 16th edition of the Kwara Youth Sports Federation of Nigeria (YSFON) Commissioner of Police Cup 2025.
The Governor emphasized the importance of inclusivity in sports, stating that female athletes will continue to receive adequate attention.
He commended the State Commissioner of Police for sustaining the initiative and building on the achievements of his predecessor in grassroots sports development.
“I salute the CP and hope this is the beginning, with it, a lot of youths will be taken off the street and get opportunities.
“I also salute the Service Chiefs and hope they can take a lesson from what the CP has done” he said.
Commissioner of Police, Mr. Adekimi Ojo, highlighted the role of sports in crime prevention, noting that constructive engagement of youths can help achieve this goal.
He praised the tournament for gender inclusiveness which has aired the improvement of female football in the country.
The Chairperson of Police Officers Wives Association (POWA) in Kwara State, Mrs. Catherine Adekimi, emphasized the importance of giving girls positive role models to inspire them to make meaningful contributions to society.
The Chairman of Kwara YSFON, Mallam Ademola Kiyesola, urged parents to encourage their children to participate in sports, stressing that the tournament aims to reduce youth restiveness and curb criminality.
The tournament, featured Under-13 Boys, Under-17 Boys, and Under-17 Girls categories.
The winners are as follows:
Under-17 Boys: Barca Kiddies FA defeated Future Stars FA 4-1 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in regulation time.
Under-17 Girls (POWA Cup): Kwara Ladies United triumphed with a 2-0 victory over Model Queens FA.
Under-13 Boys: Unique FA clinched the title by edging Future Stars FA 3-1 on penalties after a 1-1 stalemate.