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*Plateau FA Chairman,Prince Dr Suleiman Kwande, Hints at Expanding U-13 Governor’s Cup to U-15 Category*
The Chairman of the Plateau Football Association (PFA), Hon. Dr. Prince Suleiman Yahaya Kwande, has revealed plans to expand the 2026 U-13 Governor’s Cup football tournament to higher age categories following the success of the current edition.
Speaking after the final at the Zaria Road stadium in Jos, Hon Kwande said the initiative was established to discover, develop, and nurture young football talents across Plateau State.
“We know there are a lot of talented youngsters here, which is why we decided to organise this tournament,” he said.
According to the PFA chairman, the competition traditionally begins around Children’s Day celebrations and is currently focused on the Under-13 category.
However, organisers are now considering the introduction of an Under-15 category in future editions.
“We are trying to see how we can move from Under-13 to Under-15, or possibly run both categories together. It all depends on discussions and support from the state government,” he added.
Hon Kwande, a former member representing Jos North/Bassa Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, noted that players participating in the youth tournament could eventually progress into Under-17 and senior football teams if properly guided and developed.
On the final of the senior category of the Governor’s Cup, he disclosed that organisers are awaiting confirmation from the Plateau State Government on a date for the final match.
“If you look at the history of football in Plateau State, places like Mangu, Jos North, and Shendam have always produced strong teams. So it is not surprising to see Mangu reaching the finals in both the youth and senior categories, We are awaiting a date from the Governor,HE Barrister Caleb Mutfwang”, he stated.
The PFA chairman further called for peace, unity, and continued support for sports development across Plateau State and Nigeria.
“My advice is that we should continue to pray for Plateau State and for Nigeria to remain peaceful,” he said.
It will be recalled that Mangu LG U-13 team defeated their Jos South counterpart 2-0 to lift the trophy.
Credit: Nathaniel Mobolade
Congrats Mangu as winners