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GOVERNOR’S CUP 2026: *Riyom Chairman Sati Shuwa Pledges Stadium Renovation, Talent Development Despite Semi-Final Defeat*
The Executive Chairman of Riyom Local Government Area, Hon. Sati Shuwa, has reiterated his commitment to grassroots football development, promising to support talented young players and improve sporting infrastructure in the council area.
Hon. Shuwa made the pledge while answering questions from sports journalists ahead of Riyom Local Government’s 1–0 defeat to Pankshin Local Government in the second semi-final of the 2026 Plateau State Governor’s Cup, played at the Jos International Stadium.
Speaking before the encounter, the council chairman emphasised the importance of discipline, character and commitment in developing young footballers, noting that these qualities were instrumental in his team’s impressive journey to the semi-finals.
According to him, good character remains fundamental to success in every aspect of life, including politics and sports.
“We are people of God, and in moving society forward, it needs character. Just as we are politicians, one cannot win elections by tools, but by character,” he stated.
On his plans for football development in Riyom, Hon. Shuwa expressed his desire to see the local government host major football competitions, particularly the final of the Plateau State Governor’s Cup.
He disclosed that efforts were underway to complete renovation work on the Riyom mini stadium to make the facility suitable for competitive football.
“We will be happy to see that the final of this competition is played in Riyom. We have a mini stadium that we are working towards completing,” he explained.
Beyond stadium renovation, the chairman identified talent discovery and player development as major priorities of his administration.
He expressed optimism that the competition could provide opportunities for talented footballers from Riyom to progress into professional football within Nigeria, across Africa and internationally.
“We need to get talented boys who can be marketed to clubs in Nigeria, across the African continent and internationally,” he said.
Asked whether arrangements had been made to engage football scouts to identify promising players, Hon. Shuwa explained that the process of screening and discovering talented footballers was ongoing.
“We are still screening. If a talented player is discovered, I am ready to support him because I have the passion. That is why I am here to motivate and inspire the boys,” he added.
Despite the chairman’s optimism before kick-off, Riyom’s campaign ended in disappointment as Pankshin secured a narrow 1–0 victory to advance to the final of the competition.
The result brought Riyom’s impressive run to an end, but the chairman’s comments highlighted his administration’s stated intention to sustain grassroots football development beyond the tournament.
With Pankshin progressing to the final, Riyom will now look towards building on its semi-final appearance while pursuing the proposed stadium improvements and opportunities for its emerging football talents.
Credit : Nathaniel Mobolade
