The Bauchi State Government has rewarded some outstanding athletes and coaches who represented the state at the just concluded National Sports Festival in Asaba, Delta State.
The state Commissioner of Youths and Sports Development, Adamu Manu Soro, yesterday hosted the Bauchi state contingent at the Tafawa Balewa Stadium where he doled out cash to the medallists.
It would be recalled that Team Bauchi won 6 silver and 10 bronze medals to finish 29th on the medals table.
Bauchi state athletes featured in para athletics, taekwondo, gymnastics, weightlifting, badminton, canoeing and wrestling.
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The commissioner also commended the athletes and their officials for making the state proud despite their late arrival at the games.
Soro also lauded Governor Bala Mohammed on his support towards sporting activities adding that the gesture would discourage youth restiveness and other social vices among the youths.
He, therefore, used the opportunity to apologize for the state’s inability to feature in team events due to what he described as challenges beyond the ministry’s control.
Some of the athletes who spoke at the brief reception expressed appreciation to the state government and the commissioner.
They also promised to reciprocate the gesture by improving on their performance.