The Chairman of the Federal Capital Territory Football Association (FCT FA), Mr. Mohammed Mouktar has reiterated his commitment to discovering and nurturing untapped talent in Judo.
He added that this was the reason why he sponsored the FCT Grassroots Junior Judo Championship in Abuja.
The event featured young athletes from six states in the North-Central zone: the FCT, Plateau, Niger, Kogi, Kwara, and Nasarawa
Speaking on Saturday in Abuja during the championship organised by the FCT Judo Association in collaboration with the Sports Department of the Youth and Sports Secretariat, FCT, and the Tichard Agbonifo Hand2Hand Foundation, Mouktar highlighted the importance of grassroots sports development.
He described judo as a sport that instills discipline and builds character adding that the sport also promotes unity and empowers young people to believe in themselves and work hard to achieve their dreams.
Mouktar noted: “Judo is a sport that instills discipline and builds character. It promotes unity and empowers young people to believe in themselves and work hard to achieve their dreams.
“Our investment in grassroots sports like Judo is an investment in the future of Nigeria. I firmly believe that talent is everywhere, but it needs the right opportunities to shine.
“That’s why I am committed to supporting and sponsoring initiatives that give our young athletes the chance to grow, compete, and become champions—both on and off the mat.
“To the young Judokas: this is your day. Show your skills, your heart, and your determination. Remember, every great champion started right where you are now.”
Also, the Secretary, FCT Judo Association, Emmanuel Gankon, expressed appreciation for Moucktar’s sponsorship and support.
“This competition builds upon the foundation our association has laid, and the sponsor has played a huge role by covering logistics, transport, accommodation, and providing tokens of appreciation for winners in various categories. We are all excited and encouraged by the success of this program,” he said.