Bauchi State's Isyaka Shines Bright at 22nd National Sports Festival with Medal Wins
By Usman Shehu Bauchi, in Abeokuta
Bauchi State athletes have been making headlines at the ongoing 22nd National Sports Festival, showcasing impressive performances and earning medals across various sporting events.
Muhammad Isyaku was a standout performer in the weightlifting division, competing in the 105kg category. Demonstrating commendable resilience despite earlier fatigue, Isyaku secured a silver medal in the snatch by lifting 105kg and followed it up with a strong performance in the total lifts, ultimately adding a bronze medal to his achievement.
The success didn’t stop there; the male badminton team also made significant strides. Mujitapha Umar initiated the team's momentum with a decisive 2-0 victory over Ikechuku Victor from Rivers. Following Umar, Abdulhamid Musa Waleed also triumphed with a similar 2-0 win against Samuel Adenirola from Team Rivers. In the third match, Philip Afolabi from Rivers faced Ahmad Balarabe Umar from Bauchi, who secured another victory with a scoreline of 2-0. These results allowed Team Bauchi to advance into the semi-final stage of the badminton competition.
In female handball, Team Bauchi successfully defeated the Abia festival team, earning a place in the quarter-finals.
As it stands, Bauchi State boasts a medal tally of one silver and one bronze, with aspirations for more as the athletes prepare to compete in various events across the festival venues.
Coach Bala Juwara, the head of the Bauchi State technical team, expressed gratitude for their medal achievements in weightlifting and for advancing in badminton and handball. He credited their progress to the unwavering financial and moral support provided by the Bauchi State Government under Governor Bala Mohammed, praising the state’s Commissioner of Youth and Support, Hon. Adamu Gabarin, for ensuring seamless provision of resources and funds for the athletes.
Reacting to the early successes, Hon. Adamu Gabarin conveyed his delight but not surprise, acknowledging the dedicated preparation of the athletes during their training camp before heading to Abeokuta. He commended the state Director of Sports, Ado Tanko, and his management team for their diligence and hard work, assuring both athletes and officials that they would receive continued support and motivation throughout the festival.
As the competition unfolds, Team Bauchi remains focused and determined to add more medals to their tally, representing the state with pride and determination.