By Kehinde Erin
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State and his immediate predecessor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, have commended the Founder of the DAM Foundation, Dr. Abdullahi Mustapha, for the successful hosting of DAM Foundation Basketball Championship held recently in Okene.
They described the initiative as a powerful platform for youth empowerment, grassroots talent discovery, and the promotion of unity across communities in Kogi Central.
The championship attracted massive attention, blending sports with entertainment and culture. Renowned Nigerian music stars such as Davido, Odumodublvck, Ice Prince, and Cubana Chief Priest thrilled spectators with electrifying performances, while indigenous Ebira artistes added rich cultural flavour that celebrated Kogi’s heritage and identity.
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Designed as a top-tier grassroot sports initiative, the DAM Foundation’s Basketball Championship was aimed at empowering young people, uncovering hidden talents, and strengthening communal bonds. The tournament reinforced the role of sports as a unifying force and a tool for social development in the state.
Following series of highly competitive matches involving local government teams and regional contenders, the Okene Basketball Team emerged champions after defeating the Adavi Basketball Team in a thrilling final that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
The winning team received a cash prize of $15,000, setting a new benchmark for basketball rewards in Kogi State and positioning the tournament among the most rewarding regional sports competitions in Nigeria.
All matches were hosted at the ultra-modern Okene Civic Centre, a facility officially commissioned by Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, during the championship. The venue provided a world-class setting that further elevated the profile of the tournament and the festivities.
Governor Ododo lauded Dr. Mustapha, who also serves as the Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria, for the initiative’s success and demonstrated the state government’s support with a ₦50 million donation. He praised Dr. Mustapha’s Renewed Hope Agenda, describing it as a timely and impactful intervention focused on empowering youths in Kogi Central.
Former Governor Yahaya Bello, also expressed appreciation to Dr. Mustapha, Governor Ododo, the athletes, and the people of Kogi Central, noting that the combined efforts of his administration and the current government have ensured lasting peace in the state.
In his remarks, Dr. Abdullahi Mustapha, who commended both leaders for fostering unity and peace, urged athletes to continue being ambassadors of harmony, and assured that future editions of the championship would be bigger and more impactful.
