
The Plateau State Government has successfully mobilised 1,000 youths for the Plateau Youth Agricultural Empowerment Programme (PLA-YEAP) at BARC Farms as part of its efforts to engage young people in productive initiatives.
The State Commissioner of Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Musa Ashom, who made this known while presenting the scorecard of his ministry, said the state government remained committed to engaging youths productively and harnessing the potential of sports as a tool for development and global recognition.
He mentioned the ongoing construction of the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Jakatai, Mangu, which is projected to be one of Nigeria’s finest. He also highlighted the government’s support for the Central Working Committee (CWC) of the Plateau Youth Council (PYC) on a retreat aimed at enhancing understanding of parliamentary procedures as part of wider empowerment initiatives.
Hon. Ashom added that the ministry had also approved funds for entrepreneurship skills acquisition for 250 youths at the National Youth Development Centre, Shere Hills, Jos.
Regarding achievements recorded in sports development, the Commissioner said Plateau United Football Club and other teams were supported by the administration of Barrister Caleb Mutfwang to remain afloat despite numerous challenges.
Other achievements include the acquisition of a CE65KWH 700W power generator to mitigate power outages in ministry facilities, the ongoing supply of sporting kits and equipment in preparation for the Gateway Ogun National Sports Festival 2025, and sponsorship of 346 athletes to participate in the ongoing National Sports Festival.
Hon. Ashom stated that the ministry had continued sponsoring local, national, and international competitions, with notable female handball and hockey teams participating in tournaments in Morocco (2024) and Egypt (2025).
He further disclosed that the state had been participating in national and club championships across multiple sports, including basketball, handball, hockey, weightlifting, cycling, beach volleyball, and badminton, as well as coaches’ certification programmes (Handball B and C grades) at the National Institute for Sports (NIS), Lagos.