The sports director in Kaduna, Mary Vayin, has reiterated the state’s commitment to reviving sports under Governor Uba Sani’s administration.

Ms Vayin, who spoke in an interview in Kaduna, said deliberate efforts are being made to upgrade facilities and restore the state’s sporting glory nationwide.

She said the measures aim to promote grassroots sports and discover young talents.

According to her, Kaduna remains one of Nigeria’s historic sporting centres; hence the need to restore the state’s reputation through well-organised sporting programmes and infrastructure development.

Ms Vayin said renovation work has commenced at the stadium to provide sportspeople with the necessary environment for training and competition.

The director revealed that the state cricket team recently travelled to Ghana for an international sporting engagement, describing it as part of efforts to expose local athletes to global competition and improve their experience.

According to her, the state’s karate team also made the government proud after winning a bronze medal at a major championship.

“The development reflects the growing progress of sports development in the state,” she said.

She also noted that efforts are being made to attract private partnerships and encourage investment in sports development in the state.

A cross-section of sports fans who spoke on sports development in Kaduna lauded the government’s renewed commitment to sports.

A football fan, Ibrahim Musa, described the move as a welcome development, particularly with the promotion of Ranchers Bees FC to the Premier League.

“Kaduna has produced many footballers and athletes in the past. If the government continues this support, many talented youths will benefit,” he said.

Maryam Suleiman, a volleyball coach, said boosting sports could help reduce social problems among young people.

“Sports keep youths busy and focused. When there are competitions and training programmes, many young people stay away from crime and drug abuse,” she stated.

A local coach, Bashir Abdullahi, also praised the renewed attention being given to sports facilities in the state after years of neglect.

“For years, many facilities were neglected, but now we are seeing improvements. Kaduna can host major competitions again if this continues,” he added.

Abdullahi Bulala, the chairman of Ranchers Bees FC, commended the government for its renewed support toward sports development, describing recent efforts as a major boost to football growth in the state.

The chairman said the government’s commitment to improving sporting activities and encouraging local teams has restored confidence among players, officials, and supporters.

He noted that support for the club and other sporting institutions would help revive Kaduna’s reputation as one of Nigeria’s leading centres for sports talent development.

(NAN)