By Nahum Sule, Jalingo
In a disappointing turn of events, organizers of the highly anticipated 2024 under-15 sporting competitions in Taraba have failed to fulfill their commitments, leaving young athletes hungry and neglected. Despite the initial agreement to provide essential sporting equipment and proper meals, the athletes were left to fend for themselves.
The sporting event, held at the renowned Jolly Nyame stadium in Jalingo, attracted talented athletes from various selected schools within the Jalingo metropolis. The competitions included 800 meters, 400 meters, 100 meters, badminton, volleyball, and more.
Our correspondent, who witnessed the event, reported that the athletes were instructed to arrive at the venue before 8 am for the games, with assurances that transportation and meals would be taken care of. However, these promises were not fulfilled.
One of the game masters, who preferred to remain anonymous, shared their disappointment, saying, “They visited our school and assured us that they would provide meals for the athletes. Many of them left their homes as early as 7 am, but by 1 pm, there was still no sign of food or water. We were told that there would be Red Cross members present to assist, but to our surprise, they only had sachets of water to offer the exhausted athletes.”
Faced with the dilemma of hungry athletes refusing to participate, the game master took it upon themselves to purchase awara, a local prepared Hausa snack, using their own money. However, this makeshift solution was far from sufficient.
Regrettably, the sport director, who is the main organizer, declined to address any questions from our correspondent, leaving the situation unresolved and raising concerns about the welfare and support provided to young athletes in Taraba.
This incident has sparked controversy and calls for accountability, as the organizers’ failure to uphold their commitments has left a bitter taste in the mouths of both the athletes and their supporters. It is crucial that such issues are addressed promptly to ensure the well-being and fair treatment of young athletes participating in future sporting events.
