The Unity Skaters of Nigeria have honoured Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State with an award of excellence in recognition of his outstanding contributions to youth empowerment, infrastructure, and sports development.
Led by its National Chairman, Mr. Sylvester Phadion, the group paid a courtesy visit to the governor on Monday in Yola, where they applauded his administration for creating an enabling environment for sports to thrive, particularly roller sports.
Phadion noted that Adamawa is the only state in Northern Nigeria currently equipped with the facilities to host a national skating competition, which influenced the decision to hold the 2025 Fresh Air Skating Championships at Ribadu Square, Yola.
The championship drew over 800 skaters from 33 states who competed in four categories and 10 sporting disciplines. Cash prizes totalling ₦10 million were awarded to winners, while the state government provided free feeding and accommodation for all participants during the two-day event.
Adamawa athletes excelled at the championship, clinching gold in the under-17 category and finishing second in the roller soccer event.
Phadion explained that the initiative was not only a sporting competition but also a tool for combating social vices such as drug abuse, fostering national unity among youth, and promoting healthy recreational activities.
He further appealed to Governor Fintiri to incorporate skating into the state’s official sporting programs and consider the construction of a dedicated skating rink within the new stadium project.
In his response, Governor Fintiri appreciated the Unity Skaters of Nigeria for their role in youth development and social cohesion through sports. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to providing platforms that empower young people across the state.
“We will continue to invest in the youth and create opportunities for them to excel through sports and other meaningful engagements,” he said.
The governor thanked the group for the honour and pledged to support efforts aimed at institutionalising roller sports in Adamawa.
