Newly appointed Gombe state athletics boss Promises new programs

Gara-Gombe

By Rasheed Adewuyi 

Chairman of the Gombe State Amateur Athletics Association, Alhaji Ahmed Shuaibu-Gara Gombe, has vowed a complete turnaround for athletics under his watch in Gombe State.

Gombe, who recently resumed duty as the State’s athletics boss, said programs had been drawn and are awaiting implementation, adding that the programs ranged from coaches training, athletes camping, and competitions.

Gombe said, “When I took over the association a month ago, nothing was on the ground. Only two qualified athletics coaches were available, signifying that there was so much to be done. Help is needed to upgrade the status of athletics in our State.

“It’s not going to be easy as more technical support would be required. What we witnessed regarding Gombe State’s performance at the Delta 2022 Sports Festival is nothing to write home about.”

Gombe, however, assured that the State’s athletics would witness a positive renaissance that would shock many enthusiasts shortly.

The former Gombe State Football Association boss admitted that he is new in athletics but said he would consult widely to actualize positive development for sports in the State.

“We are studying our latest performance in Delta and would introduce and correct many things, including training, re-training, short and long-term camping, and talent hunt through school and inter-local government competitions, among others. It’s a fact that my plans would require funds for implementation, but I am determined to harness efforts at sourcing the funds in the belief that a good program attracts funding,” Gombe said.

“It’s achievable, and the people would see Gombe AthIetics Association in a new way by the Ogun State Sports Festival gets underway in 2024.

“I will be open to good ideas from athletics experts and liaise with the sporting media to enable the public to keep abreast of developments in the association,” he concluded.