Alhaji Nura Bala-Fingiller, the Commissioner for Youths and Sports Development in Kebbi State, said the state government is proactive in addressing political thuggery effectively.
Bala-Fingiller disclosed this during a weekly press briefing organized by the State Ministry of Information and Culture in Birnin Kebbi on Monday, which aims to highlight the achievements of the current administration over the last nine months.
He said “Governor Nasir Idris has directed me to identify prominent political thugs and provide them with a modest stipend while training them in various skills,” Bala-Fingiller stated. “This initiative aims not only to curb thuggery but also to empower them to become productive, self-reliant, and potentially employers of labour.”
He added that the ministry was conducting awareness programs across all 21 local government areas of the state to educate youths on the importance of skill acquisition and the dangers of drug abuse.
“These programs, conducted under the auspices of the Kebbi Youth Council, also involve collaboration with foreign agencies to enhance youth development initiatives, complementing the state government’s efforts in providing avenues for youth survival and self-reliance.
“Additionally, the ministry has finalized plans to establish standard skills acquisition training centres in each of the four Emirates of the state, aimed at further empowering the youth.
Bala-Fingiller highlighted the success of beach soccer in the state, citing victories such as hosting and winning the 2022 Beach Soccer League and participation in the Lagos International Beach Soccer Championship.
News Agency of Nigeria quoted the Commissioner explaining that the achievement of Kebbi’s Beach Soccer Team, was ranked number one in Nigeria.
Regarding the marketing of football players internationally, Bala-Fingiller mentioned that six players are currently on trial, with preparations underway for trials and potential contracts in Portugal for the 2023/2024 football season.
Furthermore, the state government, through the ministry, sponsored a Referees Development Program, resulting in the nomination of two referees into the FIFA Grading Programme.
