Ramat Cup 2025: YUSFON Commends Governor Sule for Hosting 20 States

By David Odama

Nasarawa State, now enjoying the reputation as Nigeria’s home of sports fiestas, has earned commendation from the Youth Sports Federation of Nigeria (YUSFON) for its peaceful atmosphere and warm hospitality, which are contributing to the growth of sports in the country.

The National Technical Director of YUSFON, Mr. Abdulgafa Agbola, gave the commendation while speaking to journalists during the opening match of the week-long Ramat International Championship, featuring under-16 football teams from across Nigeria.

Agbola, speaking at the main bowl of the Lafia City Stadium, praised Nasarawa State for carving a niche in sports growth and development, describing it as a wonderful state full of hospitality.

> “Nasarawa State is a wonderful place—very, very wonderful in terms of hospitality. I’ve been here since Wednesday and have enjoyed my stay. I even told a colleague that even if we finish the league final on Saturday, I might extend my stay for another two days because of the serene and comfortable environment here,” Agbola said.

The YUSFON official expressed satisfaction with the display of talent during the opening game, which featured Nasarawa and other North Central states. He stressed that, with encouragement, the tournament would further justify YUSFON’s purpose since its establishment nearly 60 years ago.

> “YUSFON will be 60 this year—established in 1965. You can already see the talent. Kwara Football Academy is impressive, and I understand the Nasarawa boys were assembled specifically for this tournament. I’m impressed with what they’ve shown so far,” he added.

He recalled that the tournament has, in past years, featured international teams from Benin Republic, Ghana, and even Norway, with both male and female Norwegian teams participating.

This year’s edition has 20 states competing for honours in Lafia. The opening match saw Kwara defeat Nasarawa 4–2. Day two fixtures include Plateau vs. Sokoto, Benue vs. FCT, and Ondo vs. Kebbi, with the day capped by Enugu taking on Kaduna—all at the Lafia City Stadium.

The YUSFON Director in Nasarawa State, Sulaiman Usman Bako, thanked Governor Abdullahi Sule for making Nasarawa the first state to host the championship outside Kano, its traditional venue.

Bako lauded the governor’s commitment to sports development and urged its sustainability. He also appreciated the visiting states and promised to ensure a safe, peaceful, and memorable tournament.

The Ramat International Cup, now in its 40th edition, is organised in memory of the late General Murtala Ramat Muhammed, who was assassinated on February 13, 1976. The tournament began in February 1977 and has been held annually, except in years when unforeseen circumstances forced a postponement.