By Muhammad Adam, Gombe
Herwagana Primary School has emerged champion of the Inter-Primary School Football Competition organised to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Hassan Central Primary School, Gombe.
In the final played at the Pantami Township Stadium, Herwagana defeated the host school, Hassan Central Primary School, 4–3 on penalties after a closely contested encounter, clinching the centenary trophy. The tournament featured pupils from several primary schools across Gombe metropolis.
The competition was organised by the Chairman of the Gombe Grassroots Movement, Alhaji Ahmed Shuaibu Gara Gombe, as part of activities marking the centenary celebration of Hassan Central Primary School, one of the oldest and most prestigious primary schools in Gombe State.
Speaking after the final, Gara said the tournament was aimed at promoting sportsmanship, unity and healthy competition among pupils while celebrating the school’s century-long contribution to education and human capital development.
He noted that the football competition, alongside athletics events, formed part of activities designed to commemorate 100 years of academic excellence and service to society.
According to him, other events lined up for the centenary include a public lecture at Gombe State University on the history and achievements of Hassan Central Primary School, a grand reunion of former pupils and teachers at the school premises, and the presentation of awards to individuals who have made significant contributions to the institution’s growth.
Gara commended the organising committee for the successful conduct of the tournament and thanked teachers, pupils, parents, invited guests and supporters for contributing to its success.
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He described sports as a vital tool for promoting discipline, teamwork, friendship and peaceful coexistence, adding that grassroots competitions provide opportunities to discover and nurture future sporting talents.
In separate remarks, the Deputy Chairman of Gombe Local Government, Alhaji Saifullahi Auwal, and the Deputy Chairman of Gombe South Local Council Development Area, Alhaji Dalhatu Boderi, praised Gara for the initiative, describing it as a worthwhile investment in youth development.
The Education Secretary of Gombe Local Government, Alhaji Abdullahi Baba, urged schools to participate in similar competitions, saying they complement academic pursuits and help identify talented athletes capable of representing Gombe State and Nigeria in future sporting events.
The centenary celebration is expected to attract former pupils, educationists, government officials and other stakeholders from across the country to celebrate Hassan Central Primary School’s enduring legacy in education.