Gombe Athletics Association Bans Athletes, NAATO, Coaches from Participating In Event

Joseph ODOEKWU

The Gombe state Athletics Association has banned her athletes, coaches and the Nigerian Athletics Association of Technical Officials (NAATO) from taking part in a proposed athletics competition which is billed to start today, 22nd October at the Pantami Stadium. 

According to a statement issued by the chairman of the Gombe state Athletics association Hon. Ahmed Shuaibu Gara Gombe and made available to journalists today, the statement hinges on the non-proper preparedness of the organizers amongst others as reasons. 

Part of the reasons for boycotting the event as contained in the statement reads:

1. The competition is below Athletics standard both in procurement of running facilities and medical insurance requirements.

2. Organisers of the competition are largely unknown to the leadership of Gombe State Athletics Association as facilities for the competition are either sub-standard or non-existent.

3. All NAATO officials were not formally and officially invited for the competition.

The Gombe AA while warning athletes and officials of the state to adhere strictly with the directives in the statement, further assured them of the associations commitment towards encouraging developmental programmes that will assist with nurturing and developing talents in the state.