By Austin Ajayi, Yola.

The paramount ruler of the Bachama Kingdom, Homum Dr. Daniel Shaga Ismaila, the Hama Bachama says the much desired peace being sort for can be achieved through sports.

The traditional ruler stated this in Numan today during the opening ceremony of Numan Federation Volleyball Unity Cup tournament for both men and women.

He said all over the world sports is not only providing opportunity for Youths to engage themselves in activities that develops them mentally and physically but it is also a unifying factor.

He noted that “this tournament has again brought people from all part of the Numan Federation to come together play and even discuss on the way to revamp the lost glory of sports in the Federation, state and the country”

‘ In the past Numan Federation has produced stars that brought glory to the state and country”

” The last time we had something like this was about seven years ago, and you will agree with me, our fortunes in sports particularly volleyball has not produced the spark because their was enough competition is the Federation to discover new talent to take over from the aging players”

The tournament which is the 2nd edition is being put together by Volunteers for Sustainable Development, a non governmental organization in collaboration with Adamawa state Sports Council and the Adamawa Volleyball Association with support from the Nigeria Volleyball Federation President, Engr. Musa Nimord.

Speaking during the opening ceremony, the Chairman, Adamawa state Volleyball Association, DCP Stephen Hasso Rtd. said “the need to revamp the game became imperative because our stars are aging and if we do not to this now, we will not players to represent us again”.

“We have invited three National Volleyball coaches and technical Officials from the Federation to come, they are here and I am sure, at the end of this tournament, we will have one or two players from both the boys and girls identified”

The retired top Cop added that sports development should not be left in hands of government alone but added that sports can only develop when government plays it’s own part by providing the needed infrastructure and quick release of funds whenever there is need.

He decried the nonchalant attitude of some state government towards sports development stressing that engaging youths in sporting activities will not only provide lively hold for them but will also check social vices and make them more responsible.

Adding that sports is also an employment avenue for hundreds of Youths.

In the opening match Numan Volleyball team defeated Shelleng by three straight set to zero same as Demsa against Gyuku team.

All the five local government areas in the Federation are taking part.