By Sha’awanatu I. Habu, Jalingo
The Jalingo Metropolitan Basketball League (JAMB LEAGUE ) concluded on Sunday, with the Panthers Basketball Club emerging as champions.
They received a winning prize of one hundred and fifty thousand naira and a trophy.
During the event held in the indoor hall of the Jolly Nyame Stadium, Jalingo, Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas was honored with an Award for his outstanding contributions to sports development in the state.
Governor Kefas’s recognition underscored the government’s commitment to empowering youth through sports across the state.
Danjuma Musa Goyo, the Chairman of the Taraba State Basketball Association, described the tournament as a success, despite initial challenges.
He praised the league’s six-month duration, which began in July, as a significant achievement in engaging youth and keeping them focused.
Mr. Nyonkaya Gargea Garboa, Chairman of the Jalingo Metropolitan Basketball League, celebrated the rising popularity of basketball in Taraba State.
He revealed plans to expand the league next year to include more local government areas, reaffirming the state’s commitment to building a league capable of competing internationally.
The Coach of Panthers Basketball Club, Charles Daghman David expressed joy over his team’s victory, describing it as a major milestone.
He applauded the league’s leadership and sponsors for their support and called on stakeholders to invest in basketball to nurture young talents and create career opportunities for players.
Meanwhile, Storm Team’s Captain, Barika’ungu Phineas Elisha, commended his team’s effort despite the loss.
He called for more support for injured players and emphasized the need for greater sponsorship to sustain the league’s growth.
Additionally, they all appealed to the Taraba State government to also invest in basketball and support the players.
However, the Commander of the 6 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Brigadier
Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa was among those who were honored with Awards.
The league has been lauded as a step forward in Taraba State’s effort to promote sports and youth development.
