The Chairman of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, Plateau State Chapter, Alfred Saiki, has lauded the award winning Governor of Plateau State, Barrister Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, for not leaving out Sports Journalists in his Sports development drive programs in the State.In his words: “Governor Caleb Mutfwang has been supporting SWAN on the Plateau since he came into office as the Number One citizen of the State. SWAN on the Plateau have also benefited from his Sports development programs in the State as the association is never left behind but carried along.”Alfred Saiki reiterates: “For the first time ever, 14 SWAN members were sponsored by his Excellency to the National Sports Festival and the National Youth Games. This positive concern shown by the Governor has greatly improved the commitment and capacity of our members. “He continues: “I can only urge him to continue with his good work for sports but he can still do more for the game on the Plateau in the sense that we want our State to become a global brand in sports.”He concludes by highlighting some of the achievements in sports by Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang in Plateau State (since coming into office in 2023).Key Achievements1. Medal Performance at National Sports Festival (NSF)Under Mutfwang’s administration, Plateau significantly improved its medal haul at the NSF in Ogun State (“Gateway Games”). Plateau won 47 medals — 8 gold, 13 silver, 26 bronze — placing 12th overall.This was a big improvement from previous festivals.2. Financial Incentives to AthletesGovernor Mutfwang pledged rewards for medalists from Plateau at NSF / Gateway Games 2024:• ₦1,000,000 for gold• ₦750,000 for silver• ₦500,000 for bronze• For team sports, gold gets ₦1,500,000. 3. For the first time ever the Governor sponsored a combined number of 16 journalists to cover both the NSF and NYG.4. Infrastructure UpgradesThe Rwang Pam Township Stadium in Jos is being renovated / remodeled. The Nigeria Football Federation president visited and praised it, saying it’s “far beyond expectations.” There are ongoing works to ensure facilities are up to standard so that the state can host national / international matches. 5. Commitment to Hosting Major Sports EventsPlateau under Mutfwang has committed to hosting NUGA 2025 (Nigerian University Games Association) and has given assurances of providing logistical, security, and other supports to ensure the event succeeds. The government is using such events also as platforms for sports tourism & youth development. 6. Support for Clubs, Youth & Sports AssociationsRegistration of sports clubs and associations: The government approved registration of many new clubs and renewal of existing ones. Provision of equipment, kits for athletes, paying of allowances before events. Encouragement of participation across a variety of sports (basketball, handball, hockey, weightlifting, cycling, etc.), including support for female teams to participate in tournaments abroad. 6. Continuous sponsorship of Plateau United and Mighty Jets in the Nigerian leagues.7. Youth Empowerment via Sports & Complementary SchemesThe Ministry of Sports and Youth Development has tied sports development with youth empowerment — e.g., skills acquisition trainings, making youth centres operational in several local councils. Efforts to use sports as a tool for youth engagement, reducing risk of idleness or negative behaviours.
