From Ali Abare, Gombe 

Governor Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo of Gombe State last weekend inaugurated the maiden edition of the Talba Open Golf Tournament in collaboration with the Ashaka Cement Plc.

Speaking during the ceremony in Ashaka, Funakaye Local Government Area of the State, Dankwambo, represented by his Deputy, Charles Iliya who’s also the acting Governor, assured of his continued support to sporting activities.

Dankwambo restated his commitment to support sporting activities particularly, the state owned football team, the Gombe United to enable the club compete with other clubs across the country and to enable the state wins medals, trophies and laurels.

“Today’s occasion is therefore a deliberate effort by Governor Dankwambo to promote the game of golf which has been misconceived by many as a sport of for the elites and the rich,” the governor said.

Dankwambo urged the participating teams at the tournament to exhibit the spirit of sportsmanship and fair play throughout the event while advising officials to be fair and officiate without bias and favoritism to ensure a hitch-free tournament.

Alhaji Bello Sheriff, Chairman State Sports Commission called on the youth to key into the game of golf as government and individuals have ventured into a policy of supporting them to participate in the game.

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“Golf has quickly become a popular sport all over the globe.

“Players of all ages, walks of life, social standard and geographic locations find solace in a good game of golf, which has direct benefit on individuals in terms of health, job creation, social benefits and economic advantage”, he said.

He further appealed to the state government to assist the commission in paying compensation to the landowners identified for the golf course and polo field.

In his remarks, Mallam Rabiu Umar, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Ashaka Cement Plc congratulated Dankwambo for introducing the tournament as a means of bringing together dignitaries from all walks of life across the country for relaxation.

He expressed the company’s readiness to continue partnership with Gombe government toward encouraging the game of golf and other sports for healthy living.

“I like to use this occasion to make a call on His Excellency to consider having a golf course in Gombe as well, as we continue to make ours available for this type of tournament”, said.

Umar added that such game serves as a means of development of the state in particular and the North East in general.